Overfed and Undernourished

For the second part of December, we are working on a media release about the epidemic of childhood obesity. Did you know that the number of obese children continues to grow each year? Over the last decade, the number of obese children has tripled. The concern about childhood obesity is tied to concerns over the number of kids who are getting type-2 diabetes, typically referred to as "Adult Onset Diabetes".

Many argue that exercising and personal responsibility will not cure childhood obesity, contrary to messages espoused by various food producers. On the contrary, the quality of food that children consume must be greatly improved and include local products and be high in nutrients.

There are various individuals and advocacy groups working on the effects of advertising on children. A study by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that young people see close to 40,000 ads per year. Some food companies use toys and other incentives to attract children to their products.

What can be done to teach our children what is necessary to live a healthy, balanced lifestyle? How are school lunch programs changing around the country? Is there access to healthy and affordable food choices in your community? What are the long term effects of obesity on children's (psychological and physical) health?

Please visit our "web resources" page to see what groups are doing about childhood obesity. Also, visit our "talking points" page for more information.