Studies show that 64% of Americans are now in danger of being overweight or obese. The ideal of completely finishing a serving in the United States has now become a bad habit, as food in America is no longer in short supply, and finishing the remainder of a meal is no longer considered crucial. Today, portion sizes have increased considerably, shown by the fact that a serving of french fries today is twice the size of a 1950s serving,  making “cleaning the plate” an unhealthy dietary action.
Research indicates that 64% of Americans are now at risk of being overweight or obese. The notion of finishing every last bite in the United States has become an unhealthy habit, as food is no longer plentiful, and completing a meal is no longer seen as essential. Currently, portion sizes have increased significantly, demonstrated by the fact that a serving of french fries today is twice the size of a 1950s serving, making "completing one's plate" an unhealthy dietary practice in the context of modern American eating habits.