In his inauguration speech last week, President Obama said, “Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and begin again the work of remaking America.”

What does that mean for obesity and overweight in America? How will the new administration guide policy, practice, and fund research to help solve this serious health crisis? What do we need to shake ourselves out of the Web-surfing, deep-fried-Twinkie-on-a-stick-eating funk we’ve been stuck in for so long? How will we re-make America into a nation of strong, healthy, fit citizens?

President Obama reportedly maintains a vigorous exercise program, avoids sweets, and keeps his weight healthy. He’s a great role model in that regard, but it’s going to take more than a role model to trim the fat from obese America.

In a recent New York Times article, Kelly Brownell, Ph.D., director of the Yale University Center for Eating and Weight Disorders, points out that the government subsidizes sugar and meat producers. School lunch and programs for low-income women provide children and infants with an abundance of dairy, sugary juices, and high-fat foods. Restructuring these programs to promote good health for the American public could make a huge impact.

The Obama Administration has promised new jobs created to revitalize our country’s infrastructure.  In addition to remodeling transportation, cultivating renewable energy, and updating public schools, can we make our communities more walk-able and create more bike trails? Because as important as transportation, energy, and education are, making it easier for Americans to be more physically active is just as critical for our long-term vitality and viability as a nation.

Public funds can boost needed obesity research, but they can also help fund existing programs known to promote physical activity and good nutrition. Government funding can influence whether or not recess, physical education classes, and activity-based after-school programs are cut. Federal and state governments can work with employers to create synergetic solutions for a lasting impact on public health.

Some solutions could be implemented fairly quickly, and others will take more time. Meanwhile, we can send our input to the White House, to Congress, state government, and business leaders. Let them know that as health care and business professionals, employees, consumers, and parents, we can’t wait. We need action.

And we can commit to taking action ourselves – making the reduction of obesity and overweight a high priority in our workplaces and our own families. We can set screen-time limits for our kids and make them go outside and play. And we can make the personal effort to exercise regularly, eat smart, and seek additional support as needed to help achieve and maintain a healthy weight. We all need to pitch in and be part of the solution.