Child obesity is alarmingly prevalent in the United States today; approximately 18 percent of all adolescents are considered obese. Obesity is defined as “one of the most pervasive chronic diseases...that affects more than one-third of the population” (www.obesity.org). Although obesity may be a significant challenge facing adults in the United States, adolescents are encountering a similar dilemma. Why is childhood obesity such a major problem in the United States? Though obesity has been shown to be passed down from generation to generation somewhat, obesity is ultimately caused from inadequate eating habits in conjunction with low amounts of exercise. Today’s adolescents are regularly eating fatty and unhealthy foods, in addition to not
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As a prejudice and judgmental society, we are fully aware of the physical effects of obesity. In short, obesity completely changes the body. Obesity is more formally defined as a having a Body Mass Index (BMI) over 30 or having a waist circumference of 35 inches of greater. Resulting in excessive weight gain, obesity results in decreased mobility and activity. This weight gain also causes the body to act abnormally; numerous metabolic processes throughout the body are altered or stopped altogether. Obesity can also bring about diabetes, a type of autoimmune disorder which is attributed to the body’s insulin. Other conditions related to obesity include heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, and even …show more content…
Obesity ravages the body; many bodily processes are disrupted, putting those who are obese at risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, and eventually death. The psychological ramifications of obesity are just as harsh. Many children suffering from childhood obesity are bullied in school, and suffer from identity and self-esteem issues. Because of these effects, prevention and early detection of obesity is crucial in children. To prevent obesity be sure to follow the proper nutritional requirements of the food pyramid and to get at least 60 minutes of exercise each day. While it is acceptable to have an unhealthy food choice now and then, such meals should be limited and eaten
As a prejudice and judgmental society, we are fully aware of the physical effects of obesity. In short, obesity completely changes the body. Obesity is more formally defined as a having a Body Mass Index (BMI) over 30 or having a waist circumference of 35 inches of greater. Resulting in excessive weight gain, obesity results in decreased mobility and activity. This weight gain also causes the body to act abnormally; numerous metabolic processes throughout the body are altered or stopped altogether. Obesity can also bring about diabetes, a type of autoimmune disorder which is attributed to the body’s insulin. Other conditions related to obesity include heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, and even …show more content…
Obesity ravages the body; many bodily processes are disrupted, putting those who are obese at risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, and eventually death. The psychological ramifications of obesity are just as harsh. Many children suffering from childhood obesity are bullied in school, and suffer from identity and self-esteem issues. Because of these effects, prevention and early detection of obesity is crucial in children. To prevent obesity be sure to follow the proper nutritional requirements of the food pyramid and to get at least 60 minutes of exercise each day. While it is acceptable to have an unhealthy food choice now and then, such meals should be limited and eaten