There's no end to the number of "miracle" diets advertised on TV. Combat their influence with this video, which illustrates what's really needed to reach and maintain a healthy weight - commitment, discipline, and attention to dietary details. Focusing on bad eating habits as the main factor in America's obesity epidemic, the program also cites lack of exercise along with cultural and technological issues. Viewers learn about body mass index, or BMI; the risks of being overweight or obese; ways in which healthy eating and exercise help to prevent a range of diseases; and the benefits of fiber, vitamins, minerals, and proper hydration. Students will also gain an understanding of calorie intake and expenditure using a simple formula. The USDA's MyPlate food graphic and dietary guidelines are discussed as well.

Encoded with permission for digital streaming by Infobase on October 02, 2011. Learn360 is distributed by Infobase for Films for the Humanities & Sciences, Cambridge Educational, Meridian Education, and Shopware.

The Obesity Epidemic (3:46) -- What is a Healthy Body Weight? (5:16) -- Food, Nutrition and Body Weight (3:12) -- Food, Nutrition and Body Weight: Healthy Choices (5:16) -- How Many Calories Do You Need? (2:53) -- The Biology of Body Weight (2:51) -- Dieting, Exercise, and Maintaining a Healthy Weight (6:12) -- Credits: Nutrition and Weight Management (1:24).