Childhood Obesity

Childhood obesity in America is becoming a major problem. Teenagers, young children, and even toddlers are increasingly getting larger. Fast food, video games, and lack of exercise are some of the main causes of this for most people. There are obviously many health problems, such as heart disease, but emotional problems can be just as damaging, especially in children. Low self-esteem, negative body image, and depression are common in overweight youths, which can sometimes lead to eating disorders. I believe that schools, parents, and the fast food industry could all play a major role in helping the children of our future. Schools, for instance could spend more time educating children on all the physical and emotional effects of obesity, as well as teach them how to stay healthy. They could also help by increasing physical education and recess times. Parents could set a good example, try to help them eat better foods, and take walks with their children. Finally, fast food industries could make portions smaller again and try to promote fruits and vegetables in their advertisements instead of double cheeseburgers. I believe we should also have harsher health regulations to keep the bad foods from becoming worse, and higher standards for the animals used for the foods. Healthier, happier animals results in better quality meat with more nutritious benefits.