Prevalence of Obesity among children in USA

Prevalence of Obesity among children in USA

Introduction

Obesity among the children is one major problems of the United States today. It is not only dangerous for them but for the future of our country. Who is responsible for this increasing obesity among the children in our country? We would evaluate the role of Parents, fast food companies and the government in this regard in this essay. The fast food chains are attracting the children in many ways and are responsible for the increasing obesity among the children. Children actually learnt about the food for the first time from their parents. If the parents do not allow their children to eat junk food from their childhood, they will not get addicted to it. The government can also play an effective role to reduce the obesity among the children in our country. Finally we all have to endeavor for the provision of healthy food to the children in our country.

Discussion

The role of fast food chains

Some people argue that obesity arises due to the interests of large corporations which even control the production of food from the plantation of crops to finally bringing it to the fast food chains. The fast food chains are attracting the children in many ways and are responsible for the increasing obesity among the children. They use toys in their advertisement in order to attract the children. Similarly, the fast food chains chose those locations which are near to their schools; resultantly the children easily reach there. The fast food chains should broaden their menu and include healthy food particularly for children in their menu.

It is irony of fate that as a nation, we produce a large number of calories than we require for a person, so these corporations make use of these excess calories by compelling us to consume in one way or another. Apart from great emphasis on certain crops like corn, there are many food items in our country which have large amount of calories and fewer amounts of healthy nutrients, which are severely marketed for the children and families. Similarly, in most of our cities there are some places where one does not find any grocery store or place to buy vegetables and fruits. Due to fewer choices in these places most of the families are forced to consume fast food and other fatty products for themselves and their families.

The Role of Parents

On the Other hand, there are some people who say that the parents of the children are responsible for the increasing obesity in our country. They believe that it is the duty of the parents to monitor the food intake of their children. Similarly, they say that it depends entirely upon us that what we prefer to eat ourselves and for our children as well. Furthermore, if the parents and families will prefer nutritious food for their children, they will not only grow healthier but will also not face the health related ...