Essay on child obesity and how we as a culture can work on fixing it.

 

Does it ever occur to you how you rarely see kids out playing anymore? Riding bikes or playing basketball? How electronics and Tv’s have people trapped in a world of their own?  Child obesity has always been a problem.  Obesity in general in America has always been a huge problem, but children are especially in danger.  19.3% of children in the U.S are considered obese[1] In the mid 70’s only 5.5% of children were considered obese.  So unfortunately, this number is rising, and we need to get it down low again.  Obesity effects kids in several different ways.  Not only is it physically unhealthy for them to live this way, but also emotionally and mentally.  Overeating teaches them to not say no, to please themselves first and to not make their health and wellness a big importance.  It may also cause self-esteem and body image issues for a child going through adolescents as well.  Children may believe they look different from other children and at a young age social media pushes eating disorders and unrealistic expectations for these growing children. If children are seen as obese, they may also be bullied as well which leads to more emotional and mental problems down the road.  During the Covid-19 pandemic, when schools were shut down, many children lost access to a regular schedule, and many activities such as sports.  Not having these opportunities and being stuck at home, many children quickly became entertained by ipads, ps4’s and phones.  With parents having to work still, this became a way to keep kids busy while at home.  Again, due to not being active at school with sports and PE. There was too much down time for these kids.  There are several ways a community can come together to help battle child obesity.  One way would be extra-curricular sports on weekends, park playdates, helping do yard work around the community, and lastly what I want to devote my career to after I graduate, child fitness programs in gym facilities.  This will help not only battle child obesity, but their parents as well! A child’s fitness plan will not only push children to apply themselves to weightlifting and cardio, but that it is important for mom and dad to get their workout in as well! Classes together where they can watch their parents lift weights will help push them to want to work harder! It teaches them their body is important and as a family, we should all work together to promote that.  I believe if healthy eating like fruits, veggies, portions and carbs are shown In the right way to children, that this lifestyle will stick with them for the rest of their life! There is nothing wrong with a little TV here and there, or time spent online, but we must make sure kids understand how important taking care of their body is! It is also important to show them that it can be fun! A family bike ride after supper, a game of ball out front! Children need to be active! To get a little sweaty and have fun! But most importantly we as adults must lead by example and have a healthy and active lifestyle! Actions speak louder than words!

 

[1] 2021. The State of Obesity 2020: Better Policies for a Healthier America – tfah. [online] Available at: <https://www.tfah.org/report-details/state-of-obesity-2020/> [Accessed 29 July 2021].