As records go, this isn't the one to beat: Mississippi recently became the first state in the nation to have 30% of its citizens qualify as obese. Health experts have several theories why Mississippi is now "the fattest state," including the fact that it's one of the poorest states in the country. People who have to stretch their food dollar often turn to cheap processed foods with poor nutrition. State leaders are stepping up to the plate. Schools will now be requiring 150 minutes of gym class each week, which equals out to 30 minutes a day, for K-8 students. They'll also require 30 minutes per week of health education and are cleaning the junk food out of their vending machines. The hope is that students will take their new habits home with them; if they don't, Mississippi's future looks grim. By 2015, 50% of the state could be obese. Find out where your state stands here.
