I'm not sure most humans are built to overcome these hurdles, and they're just becoming larger as time goes on.
Since obesity and obesity-related illnesses spiked in America in the 1970s, and the rhetoric here implies that such illnesses are primarily about conscious choice and will, the conclusion is that humans in america before 1970 were stronger people- in will, mind, body. They were a more disciplined, moral people, who had the will to resist all unhealthy and processed foods, sleep properly, and work reasonable hours doing active labor.
I find that quite confusing, because I don't recall that ever being the case.
No, that conclusion is incorrect. And equally valid hypothesis is that "industries" have become much better at making people choose against their own interest (and against their health). Maybe television has played a big part in that?
Not that it might not contribute, actually I would be surprised if it didn't somehow, but - its "us". You, me, everybody. We are lazy, we are overworked, we just sit on our asses whole day, lack sleep, eat junk food, drink crappy drinks, we know damn well we should exercise often but still we don't because blah blah. All these are personal decisions.
Anybody can look for excuses to feel a victim of the evil world and genes, or one can do something about it. Steps are crystal-clear these days, and super simple. Results are 100% guaranteed to get your life better, live longer etc. No excuse is good enough.