besity is a major healthcare problem in the United States (US) and other countries across the globe. Obesity rates have reached pandemic proportions and resulted in increased healthcare costs. Obesity-related health conditions, such as hypertension, sleep apnea, Type 2 diabetes, and many others also result in additional healthcare expenditures. It is estimated that in the US alone, almost $900 billion, or a total of 16 to 18 percent of healthcare expenditures, will be attributed to obesity an...