To Eat or Not to Eat That is the Question
I am concerned with the the rate of obesity in children today. Too many times we just give in to what the student or in most cases what our children want. Many children are raised on junk food and many have no idea what the food pyramid is or why it is important. Many children protest the thought or idea of having to eat an apple or orange many would prefer to eat a twinkie instead. Many peoples lifestyles are so crazy and hectic that they would rather give in to the child instead of arguing with them. "Childhood obesity increased from 5 percent in 1964 to about 13 percent in 1994. Today, it is about 20 percent – and rising." http://life.familyeducation.com/parenting/obesity/29523.html Furthermore, an estimated 61% of overweight young people have at least one additional risk factor for heart disease, such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure. In addition, children who are overweight are at greater risk for bone and joint problems, sleep apnea, and social and psychological problems such as stigmatization and poor self-esteem. Overweight young people are more likely than children of normal weight to become overweight or obese adults, and therefore more at risk for associated adult health problems, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, several types of cancer, and osteoarthritis. Healthy lifestyle habits, including healthy eating and physical activity, can lower the risk of becoming overweight and developing related diseases. http://www.cdc.gov/HealthyYouth/overweight/index.htm There is reason to be concerned with the overwhelming high rate of obesity among children. The information provided in this blog is only a tiny fraction of the implications cause by childhood obesity. Parents and children themselves need to take the initiative to create a healthy lifestyle.