Why Obese People Should Be Terrified of Snowballs

By 2050, 50% of Brits will be obese.

Studies suggest while smoking generally reduces life expectancy by about 10 years, obesity can cut it by 13. And related health issues will cost the NHS an extra £45.5 billion a year.

Obviously, obesity isn't funny. It’s a widespread crisis that requires support and action at the national, local and family level.

However, the psychology behind it is, because several of these issues wouldn't exist if a lot of overweight people didn't think they were snowballs. Let me explain.

Have you ever thought about how snow becomes a really big snowball?

Snowballs don't make themselves. You have to put a lot of time and effort into adding clumps of snow together and molding it into the shape you want. Every step of the way, you are very aware your snowball is gradually getting bigger and bigger and bigger.

You're not too worried about this because you know when you're done with your giant snowball, as long as you hit it hard enough, it will instantly return to being clumps of snow. Or you can leave it to melt.

Now, let's be honest. You don't become overweight overnight. But, have you ever seen a poster child for weight loss that was just a little overweight? It seems these people don't exist. Often, they look like this guy.

Like they've been happy to let things progress up to a certain point believing that when the time comes, they can lose all that weight in a heart beat.

Unfortunately, it doesn't work like that. And although I've never tried, I'm pretty sure if you were to hit an overweight person, like you smash a snowball to make it lose form, said person would still remain overweight.

Let's look at an example, Jennifer Hudson.


In 2010 she became the spokesperson for Weight Watchers. In 2011, she appeared on the Oprah Winfrey Show and revealed she had lost a total of 80 pounds (36kg).

Looking at the before and after pictures, it's clear it must have taken a great deal time, dedication and effort to make the change. She looks amazing. Kudos.

But why make it so hard on yourself?

Why let yourself become so big before you decide get rid of it all? Or any of it.

You're not a snowball.

Reversing the process won't be easy.

But maybe it's not our fault. According to The Daily Mail, due to our contemporary lifestyle, 'it's impossible for many to avoid putting on weight', and we are 'destined' to pile on pounds.'

What do you think?

Do you agree overweight people should address the issue much sooner than they often do?

Do you agree with The Daily Mail?

Do you feel destined to become obese?

Let's discuss in the comments.