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MEXICO-POLICE-HEALTH-OBESITY
Drop that donut! Mexico pays portly cops to slim down
MEXICO CITY, Dec 13, 2019 (BSS/AFP) – It’s a sunny morning in Mexico City,
and police officers drip with sweat as they do push-ups and squats, part of a
program for overweight cops in one of the world’s most obese countries.
The two dozen officers grimacing through their workout on the pavement of
the station house yard — most with round bellies bulging beneath their
drenched T-shirts — are just a handful of the more than 1,000 across the
capital who have enrolled in the program, “Healthy Police.”
They get a bonus of 1,000 pesos (about $50) a month to participate —
though judging by the looks on their faces as their instructor shouts
encouragement to finish one more set, some of them seem to doubt whether it’s
worth it.
But those who stick with the program, which was launched three months ago,
say it can be life-changing.
“This was all completely new to me… The first month was tough, both
mentally and physically,” said one, Mauricio Barrera.
“But the program has helped me understand that obesity is an illness,” the
26-year-old told AFP.
Barrera, who now looks fit and trim, cracked a grin when he revealed how
much weight he has lost since he started: 16 kilos (35 pounds).
“This program is a way to fight the obesity problem we have in Mexico, the
sedentary lifestyle,” said Javier Ramirez, the buff fitness instructor
guiding the beat cops through their routine.
“We want them to be in optimal condition so they can do their jobs
effectively.”
– Obesity epidemic –
Three-quarters of adults in Mexico are overweight or obese, according to
national statistics.
Its obesity rate — nearly one-third of the adult population — is second
only to the United States in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and
Development (OECD), a 36-member group of developed countries.
Mexico’s obesity epidemic is driving high rates of diabetes and heart
disease, according to public health experts.
Officials have started looking for ways to combat the problem.
In 2014, the country leveled a tax on soda and other sugary beverages. One
study estimates it will save 18,900 lives and more than $983 million over 10
years.
This year, Congress also passed a law requiring manufacturers to put
warning labels on junk foods high in sugar, sodium or saturated fat.
– ‘Body feels the difference’ –
Mexico City’s 83,000-member police force is not immune to the problem.
“My health was poor, and I was getting tired at work,” said officer
Graciela Benitez, 36, taking a break from her crunches.
She has lost around 10 kilos since she started the program, which also
includes nutrition counseling sessions to help officers eat a more healthful,
balanced diet.
“I used to feel sleepy after lunch. I was tired when I got to work,” said
Benitez.
“Now, I don’t get tired. My body feels the difference.”
The authorities are hoping she will serve as an example for more obese
police.
BSS/AFP/GMR/0901 hrs