A study of more than 1,000 U.S. adults reveal that Americans largely ignore healthful food choices, as well as diet and exercise guidelines.

"Solutions lie in understanding the cultural and behavioral limits of Americans," study author Chris McCarthy of Landis Strategy & Innovation. "One of the key findings in our report 'Wellness in America: Lifestyles Spell Disaster' is the relationship of stress in goal achievement or failure, especially where health and well-being is concerned. That stress, inherent in American lifestyles, leads to a resulting need for comfort, which in turn is the willpower buster."

Another report, "F as in Fat: How Obesity Policies Are Failing in America," released by the Trust America's Health, said that in the last two years, no states have reduced their obesity rates. The study showed that residents of an additional 31 states have actually increased their girth, said McCarthy.