Obesity in the United States

The rate in childhood obesity is increasing rapidly: “Approximately 12.7 million, or 17 percent, of children and adolescents are obese. Obesity is among the easiest medical conditions to recognize but most difficult to treat. Unhealthy weight gain due to poor diet and lack of exercise is responsible for over 300,000 deaths each year.”

The rate of Obesity will not change until adolescence are taught the proper nutrition they need. “Studies have shown that a child who is obese between the ages of 10 and 13 has an 80 percent chance of becoming an obese adult” kids at this age are when they really need to understand the importance of a proper diet and key nutrients that there body needs.

The cause of obesity consists of several factors including: Poor eating habits, binge eating, lack of exercise, family history of obesity, and not getting the proper nutrients. By teaching young kids how to control a healthy diet, and healthy eating habits we can slow down the rate of obesity. Risks of obesity include; increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, breathing problems, trouble sleeping, joint pain and hormonal changes.

In high schools a nutrition curriculum would teach a weight management program, how to develop a good eating routine, how to control portions, plan meals and what types of nutrients different types of people need. All of these skills would help a student manage their weight properly.
A child in its adolescent years are very important to get the proper nutrition. As a child starts to go through puberty their appetite grows. As these cravings start to occur they need to understand what to eat and what not to eat. The right nutrition is key to reach their full growth.