How Texas Became One of the Fattest States in the U.S.

Everything is bigger in Texas, and apparently that includes Texans. In a state where you can find some of the best food ever made, it makes sense that people like to eat. However, eating all that good food can lead to weight gain. That contributes to Texas having a high obesity rate.

Let's face it, you can find a big plate of brisket, a big bowl of Blue Bell, or an amazing taco truck on each corner of the state.

Why Texas Ranks Among the Fattest States

It's no surprise that the Lone Star State has the most obese city in the country. Since 2022, McAllen, Texas, has held the title of the most obese city in the U.S.

Read More: McAllen, Texas, Once Again Tops the List for Most Obese in the US

With a title like that, it is no wonder that Texas is also considered one of the most obese states in the US. Luckily, Texas didn't take the number one spot, but it was in the top 10, landing at number 8.

A new study by WalletHub compared all 50 states and DC for Obesity and Overweight Prevalence, Health Consequences, and Food and Fitness. It then used 31 different metrics to determine which states had the most obesity. Here's where Texas ranked on those metrics.

• 11th – % of Overweight Adults
• 25th – % of Obese Adults
• 16th – % of Overweight Children
• 6th – % of Obese Children
• 7th – % of Physically Inactive Adults
• 18th – % of Adults with High Cholesterol
• 12th – % of Adults Eating Less than 1 Serving of Fruits/Vegetables per Day
• 9th – % of Adults with Type 2 Diabetes
• 24th – % of Adults with Hypertension
• 14th – Obesity-Related Death Rate

Texas Food Culture: Delicious but Dangerous

With all the delicious Mexican food, BBQ, and sweets at our fingertips, it's hard to resist. If Texans are eating and living sedentary lifestyles, it stands to reason that it is one of the most obese states.

Read More: How to Immediately Lose Your 'Texas Card' in 16 Ways

Can Texas Drop from the Fattest States List?

With so many options these days for weight loss, and access to many outdoor trails, parks, and gyms. Hopefully, Texas can drop some of the weight and get itself out of the top 10 for being the most obese and overweight.