Dan Pierson
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Best Answer
Obesity is a growing problem across the United States, and no one group is more prone to becoming overweight than children. There are a number of different reasons for this. While in some cases, the blame lies with genetics rather than behavior, the sad truth is that much of the problem has developed over the past 30 years. Indeed, obesity is said to be responsible for more than 300,000 deaths per year, and cost society about 100 billion dollars annually.
Look at the cafeteria in your local middle school. In many parts of America, school lunches don’t provide proper nutrition. They’re loaded with calories, but don’t have the vitamins and nutrients needed for children to grow up healthy, lean, and strong. Additionally, kids have access to vending machines that are packed with candy and soda, which are both sources of completely empty calories.
Children also aren’t nearly as active as they used to be. Instead of playing outside, chasing footballs and skateboarding, many kids are now plopped firmly down on the couch in front of the Nintendo. With parents off at work and unable to supervise, afternoon hours are completely wasted playing video games. While there are programs endorsed by entities like the National Football League, such as Play 60, designed to get kids outside, it’s definitely an uphill battle.
So when it comes down to it, the problem is two-fold: kids are eating poorly, and not getting enough exercise. Ultimately, it should be the parent’s responsibility to get kids out onto the playground, while providing proper, nutritious meals both inside and outside of the home.
 Posted 5456 day ago
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