there is a world of difference between putting on a few pounds and morbid obesity ( which is a life threatening condition).

Our metabolism has evolved to use the nutrients available and maximize our ability to survive periods of drought & famine. Studies of women who suffered from near starvation during wartime were found to actually alter their metabolic pathways to conserve calories. This change in metabolism continued during their pregnancies and influenced the developing fetus... who then shared the metabolic conservation of calories.

Couple altered metabolisms with major changes in lifestyle and you have the present situation. And many of the most affected are low income folks who have almost no access to affordable, healthy food.

Obesity is a major health issue... but it will not be solved by close minded arguments or by ignoring it. Our founding fathers were products of the Age of Enlightenment and appreciated the need for scientific study and endeaver. Contrast that with today and a growing number of folks who want to return to an ignorant past and fear those who "think outside the box". It's easier to pass judgement than to actually determine what the heck is really going on.