User:Morganhoholik123

Since 1980 there has been a steady increase in obesity rates in children and adults in the United States. In 1980 the obesity rate was at seven percent for children ages six to twelve, and now the obesity rate is at twenty percent for children in the same age group ("Childhood obesity facts," ). Currently the United States has the highest obesity rate in the world. The obesity rate has risen and is continuing to rise in the country. This increase shows how many children and adults are in need of guidance and help in order to shed the excess weight they carry. Many Americans do not realize what chemicals and dyes are in their foods, and many do not have the ability to purchase organic foods. As the number of chemicals, dyes and sugars rise in food there are negative health changes that are being seen. Currently about one out of every three children is obese ("15 shocking facts," 2010). There are many programs and campaigns that are set up to help combat the rapid rate of obesity, but in order for these initiatives to be successful the people need to change their habits as well. Because the obesity rate is expected to increase, causing nearly half the population to become obese by 2030, the government needs to create limits for “Junk food” companies, increase the importance of physical education in schools, and provide guidance to children and parents to help slow the rate of obesity in the United States. There have been many steps taken in order to help fight obesity, and they are starting to make a difference. There are campaigns done by Michelle Obama and the NFL to help kids learn about the importance of physical education and to educate them enough to make healthier food choices. The United States needs to take the issue of Obesity seriously because it is affecting a large portion of the population.

Resources:

15 shocking facts about obesity. (2010, December 6).Business Insider, Retrieved from http://www.businessinsider.com/shocking-facts-obesity-america-2010-12?op=1

(n.d.). Childhood obesity facts. Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Retrieved from http://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/obesity/facts.htm

Category:Obesity in the United States Category:Childhood Obesity