Childhood Obesity Summary

The issue of childhood obesity is not a new one. According to public health specialists Marion Nestle and Michael F. Jacobson (2000), “Prevention of obesity by individuals and population groups has been a explicit goal of national public health policy since 1980” (p. 15). Due to the processed foods and fast foods that American parents are feeding their children, this problem is getting more out of control as time goes on. Although it would be nice to think that this issue goes away, it is important to realize that this problem extends though the lives of the affected children. Lesley Lueke (2011), in her article “Devouring Childhood Obesity by Helping Children Help Themselves,” states, “Childhood obesity rates are also on the rise and obese …show more content…
This can lead to their life expectancy being lowered. Frankie Philips (2012), in his article called “Facing up to Childhood Obesity” explains that there is an entire list of problems and issues that derive from obesity in childhood. Philips argues that the problems surpass the visual and cosmetic problems of obesity when he says, “These [problems] may include discrimination and prejudice, with ensuing effects on the developing sense of self and self-esteem, potentially leading to a poor body image, which may increase susceptibility to eating disorders in later life, and depression” (p. 1). This issue is causing more problems in the lives of growing children. Psychological problems also tend to stick with children throughout adult years. Psychological problems require special counseling and can cost a lot of money and mental …show more content…
Sonia Caprio (2006), a pediatric doctor, says that the most effective childhood obesity treatment plans consist of a combination of dietary planning, physical activity, and parent involvement. This combination natural method is a method that requires a life style change for the child and the parent. Adult and parental influence is a large factor in solving this problem. Making sure children are eating well-prepared home cooked meals with fresh fruits and vegetables rather than processed food and fast food can make a big difference. Also, physical activity can be a large help for children who are struggling with obesity. Children need to be playing outside, joining spots teams, and getting regular exercise. Too often, children are cooped up inside all day playing videogames and watching TV. This is not helpful to solving the problem of childhood