The Childhood Obesity Epidemic

Childhood obesity has become a widespread problem in America. We now know it is a dangerous prelude to a multitude of health conditions, many that traditionally occurred only in adulthood. Sadly, we are seeing these diseases show earlier and earlier in our children's lives. We may be the first generation to actually see our children have shorter life expectancies than our own generation. Additionally, our children may bear more chronic illness than we, as their parents, will have.

We all know that obesity can cause health issues such as diabetes; cardio vascular disease; cholesterol; high blood pressure; and sleep apnea in adults. These same diseases are now surfacing in children as young as 7 or 8 years of age and sometimes, even younger. Children who are obese have a much greater chance of being obese adults and may acquire these same diseases in later life as well.

Whose Fault is it?

Do you recall healthy lunches? They usually consisted of a nutritious sandwich, milk, and a piece of fruit. Today, fewer families put together a nutritious lunch and more often than not, many parents simply leave money on the counter for their children to buy whatever, wherever they wish to consume.

Yes, a major factor in overweight children is the fast food industry. With one or both adults in the home working, kids are eating at fast food chains more and more frequently. This is mainly true of middle school and high school age children with working parents. These kids sometimes eat at these fast food restaurants for breakfast as well as lunch many days of the week.

More and more, time-stressed moms are taking even their pre-school children to McDonald's or Burger King for lunch usually because it is convenient. When they are out running errands and lunchtime suddenly surfaces, it is all too simple to grab some fast food to alleviate the hunger. Without even knowing it, they are contributing to their child's obesity but not necessarily in the healthiest fashion. This is not an indictment on modern mothers; it is a real reflection of the world we live in. Due to overly busy and rushed lives, whatever is easiest, handy and fast has become the rule rather than the exception.

What Can Society Do?

We, as caregivers, must be a positive role model. If we buy pizza and Chinese food or bring home-prepared meals from fast food restaurants, we are sending a clear message that these foods are appropriate as meals and not just as treats occasionally. In addition, by preparing healthy home-cooked meals, we teach our children the value of fresh, whole foods and help them view fast food as an occasional treat.

There is a void in our culture for kid-friendly restaurants where you can grab a quick bite to eat that is a nutritious meal. Some fast food restaurants are steadily beginning to add options for fresh fruit and veggies as opposed to French fries and cookies. Seek them out and support them by taking advantage of the option to eat a healthier version of fast food. Let them know you are not going to be buying their food until they provide healthy versions. The fast food industry wants our patronage. Make them earn it by talking with your pocketbook.