America has become a society obsessed with appearance, especially weight. Through television, magazines, and other forms of advertising, we are programmed at a young age to believe the only way to be normal is to be thin. However, the number of children that are obese is growing. Obesity in children is generally caused by lack of physical activity, unhealthy eating patterns, or a combination of the two, with genetics playing an important role in determining a child's weight. .
Obesity tends to run in families, suggesting that it may be genetic. However, family members share not only genes but also diet and lifestyle habits that may contribute to obesity. Although genes are an important factor in many cases of obesity, a person's environment also plays a significant part. Environment includes lifestyle behaviors such as what a person eats and how active he or she is. People often put taste and convenience ahead of nutritional content when choosing meals. Television, computer and video games contribute to children's inactive lifestyle. People can't change their genetic makeup, but they can change what they eat and how active they are.
Obesity occurs when a person's calorie intake exceeds that amount of energy he or she burned. There are many health risks in being overweight or obese, but there are also social and emotional risks. Emotional suffering could be the most painful aspect of obesity. Children could be discriminated against at school, picked on, feel rejected, depressed or have low self-esteem. Children need support, acceptance, and encouragement. Regardless of weight, children should know that they are loved and appreciated. Overweight and obese children should not be made to feel different. .
Teachers and schools can play a major role in preventing obesity. Teachers should spend more time on healthy eating, nutrition, basic cooking skills, and choosing nutritious meals.
