Childhood Obesity Control and Prevention

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Obesity has grown to become an epidemic in the United States. No single solution or strategy can prevent the disease. Sedentary lifestyles of American school children have reached an alarming rate. Greater attention, focus, and preventive measures should be placed on African American and Hispanic children because they have the highest obesity rates. Children from poverty stricken families are also at greater risk for obesity than other socioeconomic groups (Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 2004). Obesity begins with consuming more food portions than the body requires. Food advetisements is everywhere from roadside signs, glowing vending machines and brightly colored packaging on grocery store shelves. Even while enjoying a favorite television program, there is no escaping the never-ending advertisements from food establishments Parents can help their children by setting an example by demonstrating good eating habits. Planned family meals with better food selections helps to avoid junk and fast foods. Sometimes genetic factors may play a part in obesity. However, a genetic predisposition can encourage the family unit to a more active role to fight childhood obesity. Childhood obesity is on the rise among American children. Children become obese because of various genetic, behavioral and environmental factors.

What is childhood obesity? According to the Obesity Action Coalition says, “Obesity is a condition that is associated with having an excess of body fat, defined by genetic and environmental factors that are difficult to control when dieting”. (Obesity Action Coalition)Childhood obesity is caused by juvenile diabetes and that is a leading factor for children between the ages of six through adolescence. Many experts...

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