This is a very interesting topic to discuss. I think weight has been compared with wealth even in the olden times. But in those days, I think it was in reverse; the wealthy are the ones that are usually overweight/obese, while the poor are the ones who are underweight. I've even read of stories where the middle class parents sometimes fatten their daughter up to make themselves look wealthier and more enticing to a potential rich partner.

What I also find interesting is that I think the weight and wealth connection also differs with the country's wealth. In Finland, which is a first world country, the poor are more than likely to be obese than the poor. But in the Philippines, which is a third world country, the rich are the ones more likely to be obese, while the poor are severely malnourished. It would appear that in first world countries, intelligence and education are the bigger determining factor, while in third world countries, it is the actual available resources.

Comparing the past and the present foods, I think we have a lot more processed food now than back then. There is more sugar in a lot of foods as well. I've read an article that our fruits, which are supposed to be healthy, have undergone so much selective breeding that they have become too sweet. Some zoo animals are actually having problems with them.

As for people exercising or moving a lot, today's technology has made it less appealing. In the old days, there weren't much entertainment available. You had to go out and meet with friends to play. With the internet, PC, and smartphones, a lot of entertainment is available that going outside becomes a hassle. Technology is working against us in getting our weight down most of the time.

Finally, as for the Government funding and priority, people getting sick is unfortunately very good for funding. With the recent pandemic, we've seen how big pharma companies have skyrocketed their earnings. Governments were giving vaccines for free, but we know there are some deals behind close doors. Hospitals were charging exorbitant amount of fees. Insurance companies are still making money. More people getting sick, means more money for the medical field, who has a big pull in the government. In the end it is the regular citizens that are suffering again.