Essay On Childhood Obesity Epidemic

The Child Obesity Epidemic

The epidemic of childhood obesity is fierce. The problem is scattered all around the nation from the east coast to the west. Hispanics, Åfrican Americans, Whites, males, females, are all prone to obesity. For the past few years this issue has caught more attention to people around the country. Nearly 18% of children in America are obese (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). The number of overweight or obese children continues to grow throughout the country. Lance Armstrong stated “If we don't somehow stem the tide of childhood obesity, we're going to have a huge problem.”
The youth is experiencing concerning health problems, a lack of physical activity, major health care costs, depression and self-esteem
The recommended time for a physical activity is at least sixty minutes a day. Lee Haney states “Exercise is one of the best ways in preventing the rapid growth of obesity in America.” Physical activity helps to burn off calories, and to create a healthier lifestyle. Risa Lavizzo-Mourey agrees that the causes of obesity are diverse and complex, but the lack of daily physical activity is an important factor of what causes obesity. Exercise will help strengthen bones, decrease blood pressure, reduce stress and anxiety, increase self esteem, and help to control weight. Children who are not participating in physical activity are more prone to having health concerns. Children are more likely for cardiovascular disease, high cholesterol, or high blood pressure (Childhood Obesity Facts). “We are beginning to see a number of serious medical disorders occurring in our children that were previously seen only in adults…all associated with obesity. As a result, this may be the first generation that may not live longer than their parents” (Dr. Phil McGraw). As children grow up as adults, and are still facing obesity they are prone to get heart disease, diabetes, strokes, cancer, and osteoarthritis. Magnus Scheving thinks by getting kids moving will play a key factor in overcoming obesity, and will help to prevent health
Parents should not make their children finish their plate of food (Prevent Childhood Obesity). If the child says they are full the parents should listen to the child. Lisa Ling states “It is said that the way to prevent obesity is not to allow kids to become overweight in the first place. But it takes a multi-pronged approach that has to start with parents. Kids are just too young to understand the consequences of obesity.” Parents should encourage their kids to eat healthy meals. Many parents tell their children to finish their plates, but they do not realize they are putting their kids in jeopardy of becoming obese. David Murdock states “By eating many fruits and vegetables in place of fast food and junk food, people could avoid obesity.” Providing plenty of vegetables, fruits, lean meats, and nonfat or low-fat dairy products. Limiting sugary beverages, sweets, sodium, and saturated fat can help children to prevent obesity (Preventing Childhood Obesity) . Kids should be encouraged to get involved in physical activity, such as running, swimming, dancing, anything to get exercise (Preventing Childhood Obesity). Childhood obesity is continuing to grow, and people could prevent it from becoming a huge epidemic if they would follow a few simple steps to make a healthier lifestyle. Risa Lavizzo-Mourey states that “Progress among the youngest children is especially important because we know that preventing obesity at an early