POOR NUTRITION AND CHILDHOOD OBESITY

It seems we have seen an explosion of information in the media and medical journals about the rise of childhood obesity. How did we get here? Are we not one of the wealthiest and healthiest nations in the world? If we are not, how can this be?

It wasn’t too long ago that school lunch programs were started for the sole purpose of improving childhood nutrition. The National School Lunch Program and the prosperity that followed World War II eventually lead to the statement in 1955 by a government expert that the evidence “supports the conclusion that the nation as a whole is fairly well fed.” When President Truman signed the National School Lunch Program into law in 1946, he said that, “no nation is any healthier than its children.” That is a sobering thought.

A great article about this subject can be found in Mothering Magazine, # 121 November/December 2003, pages 34-43. It is a must read and filled with wonderful suggestions for community action. Let’s review a few important facts. As television viewing, computers, various electronic games and consumption of fast food has risen sharply over the years, we have also seen a rise in obesity and related disease. One of the biggest problems is type II diabetes, also called adult onset diabetes. This type of diabetes is rising in children and it is due to our modern lifestyles and eating habits. Between 15 to 24 percent of American children are overweight-a threefold increase since the 1970’s. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently warned that if the current trend continues, one in three Americans born in 2000 will develop diabetes.

The above information paints a clear picture we are all too aware of. The time for action is now. The dietary choices we make for our children when they are young, will affect their health in the present, in the future and forever. What can we do? It begins at home and in our schools.

• Minimize TV, computer use and electronic games.
• Don’t buy soft drinks, junk food, or fast food.
• Start habits early in regards to exercise that is fun and family oriented.
• Have healthy snacks out after school( vegetables, fruits, yogurt, nuts and seeds).
• Encourage after school activities to minimize sedentary lifestyles.
• Teach yourself and your children what good nutrition is.
• Get involved with your local schools and inquire about lunch and snack choices. Do they have soda and candy machines and desserts?
  

When it comes to our children’s health the buck stops with us. Be an example and a role model. Their health for now and the future is in your hands.