If the average American counted everything they put in their mouth for two weeks, they would be surprised as I was when I did it.

I am from Brooklyn, and grew up and lived their and in Manhattan until my thirties. I was raised on a typical meat and potatoes, with the occasional over-cooked vegetable (no salads) diet.

I remained at +195 lbs and 19 to 22% body fat even when active. I had thought I had cut my caloric consumption down, but when I really counted it for two weeks, I was consuming 2500 to 3000 calories per day. The only reason I was not too obese was that I was very active. I was not a soda drinker or a fast food person. I did like my eggs and cheeses, and pizza, and burritos with cheese and sour cream. My cholesterol levels were very high, and my sugars were out of whack even if I looked healthy to my American friends, but fat to my SE Asian peers.

I have been living in SE Asia for 8 years now. For the last year, I have been living in the rice fields of East Java. Food, rice and fruits, are not transported, they are within reach of my doorstep. One of the benefits of locally-grown produce. This is why I think city rooftop gardens, hydroponics, and other tech will ameliorate some of the energy use in food transport.

I went vegetarian, and then vegan, almost 3 years ago. My weight has stabilized at 178 lbs at 14% body fat. My blood work was all good last I checked. I feel healthier and stronger. I still bench 190 lbs. which is 18 lbs over my bodyweight now, and was under my bodyweight before, so yes, I am stronger by that comparison. I can run further with less fatigue, and do more pullups. I make it a habit to not sit for extended periods (read standing up, squatting Asian-style with heels on the floor, or reclined on the floor).

My Mom always pushed for good posture. She would turn in her grave at all of the youngsters with craned heads down peering at their phones ;) That and shoulders back, and no slouching!

I think that genetics plays a role in some people's weight issues, but after having my own, and listening and watching my peers, a LOT is just diet. It has even been proven that exercise only 'polishes' off the last 10% or so. It is diet that has the largest effect. I still like exercise for the other benefits it has in reducing stress, helping me to sleep better, and maintaining or building bone, joint and muscle strength.