What can we do about the obesity problem that is occurring today?
Children in America are becoming more and more overweight as the years go by,
which puts them at risk for severe health problems. There has been an
overwhelming concern about the obesity epidemic, so schools are taking measures
into their own hands. Over the last few years congress has made sure that
schools offer healthy choices for kids like vegies, whole grains, and non-fat
or low-fat milk products.
Since the 1970’s the percent of over overweight or obese
children had increased significantly. According to our text book; the
percentage of obese children in preschool has doubled, and tripled for children
ages 6-11! The government has estimated that about 9 million kids six and over
are obese. These numbers are very scary, considering what health risks come
with being obese. Cardiovascular Disease, high cholesterol and blood pressure,
and diabetes are just to name a few of the very serious diseases that can come
with being obese.
Recently the first lady, Michelle Obama announced that there
will be “Less salt and fat. More whole grains, fruit, veggies, and low-fat dairy.
This is what kids can expect in the school lunchrooms.” Obama went on to talk
about the changes that will be made to the lunch menus. Pizza will still be a
choice but it has to be accompanied by two servings of veggies. French fries
have always been a staple of the school cafeteria lunch menu, and will continue
to be, but they will have less salt on them. The USDA says that elementary
school aged kids should been consuming between 550-60 calories at lunch, “which
is about one-third of daily recommended calories.” The USDA also is trying to
get schools to “partner with local farms” to serve more fresh fruits and
veggies. I think that this is such a positive thing that is being done and it’s
great that people are taking charge to help fix this serious problem. It is our jobs as teachers to make sure we
work with parents to help to change the eating habits children have to help guarantee
a healthier future.
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