Reply #25: I think this does have a lot to do with it.

[SmokingJacket]

It might even account for the majority of the statistical increase -- I wonder if countries where there's a lot of smoking have proportionally less obesity? It would be an interesting study, but you're right: it might be a real disincentive to quit smoking.

I do think the proliferation of corn syrup in practically every processed food is part of the problem too.

Good luck to you! No one *wants* to be overweight -- it's obscene that people somehow think that prejudice against the overweight is the last legitimate bias.

(PS You're an excellent writer)