38% of American adults were obese in 2023, up from 32% in 2019

Recent Gallup survey data reveals that Americans are reporting higher rates of diabetes diagnoses, reduced adherence to healthy eating, increased cholesterol levels, and decreased confidence compared to pre-pandemic times.

This pandemic-related trend is seen as contributing to record-high levels of obesity and diabetes. In 2023, 38% of American adults were obese, up from 32% in 2019. The age group between 45 and 64 experienced the highest obesity rate at 44%, showing an 8 percentage point increase since before the pandemic.

The survey also indicates a decline in healthy eating habits, with 46% reporting eating healthy all day in 2023, down from 51% in 2019. Additionally, feelings of daily activity and productivity dropped significantly, from 50% in 2019 to 24% in 2023.