Watch The Weight of the Nation

The Weight of the Nation is a documentary series produced by HBO that highlights the critical issue of obesity in the United States. The series is divided into four parts, each focusing on a different aspect of the obesity epidemic, from the health consequences of being overweight to the environmental and social factors that contribute to weight gain.

The first part of the series, "Consequences," explores the medical impact of obesity. Viewers are introduced to Larry Dwyer, a man in his 50s who has struggled with weight his entire life. Larry has a myriad of health problems, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and sleep apnea, all of which are linked to his excess weight. Throughout the series, we follow Larry as he tries to lose weight and improve his health, while also meeting other individuals who have been impacted by obesity-related health problems.

The second part of the series, "Choices," looks at the role of diet and exercise in weight gain and loss. We meet Cindy Roach, a mom in her 40s who used to be an athlete but has struggled to maintain a healthy weight in recent years. Cindy is determined to lose weight and sets out on a journey to change her eating habits and increase her physical activity. Along the way, viewers learn about portion sizes, calorie counting, and other strategies for losing weight and keeping it off.

In the third part of the series, "Children in Crisis," we see how the obesity epidemic is affecting younger generations. We meet several families with overweight and obese kids, and hear about the challenges they face in trying to help their children adopt healthy habits. We also learn about the role of marketing and the food industry in shaping children's attitudes towards food and exercise.

The fourth and final part of the series, "Challenges," examines the societal and environmental factors that contribute to the obesity epidemic. We meet Dr. Gerald Berenson, a public health expert who has spent decades studying the impact of poverty and inequality on health outcomes. Dr. Berenson highlights the ways in which our built environment (such as the design of our communities and transportation systems) can make it difficult for people to be active and eat healthily. The series ends on a hopeful note, with a call to action for policymakers, community leaders, and individuals alike to work together to address the obesity epidemic.

Overall, The Weight of the Nation is an eye-opening and thought-provoking series that highlights the urgent need to address the obesity epidemic in the United States. It provides a comprehensive overview of the issue, from the health consequences of being overweight to the complex societal and environmental factors that contribute to weight gain. Through the stories of Larry, Cindy, and others, viewers are given a glimpse into the personal experiences of those impacted by obesity-related health problems. The series also offers practical strategies and advice for individuals looking to lose weight and improve their health, as well as a broader call to action for society as a whole to address this critical public health issue.

The Weight of the Nation is a series that ran for 1 seasons (14 episodes) between May 14, 2012 and on HBO