Obesity Tops the Chart in 2008 - YoNaturals.com
In 2007, concerns were raised over obesity ranking as the top 3rd children’s health concern. In 2008, it tops the chart as the number one health concern facing children today. The list, released by the University of Michigan’s C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health, asked parents to evaluate 20 different health problems for children in their community. The results, according to many health care professionals, are not that surprising.
In the year 2007, the top 2 health concerns were drug abuse by teens, with 39% of the vote and smoking, with 40%. While obesity was still a major problem, it ranked just below drug abuse and smoking, receiving just 34% of the vote. This year’s list, however, shows something entirely different. Obesity is now the biggest health concern parents have for their children, receiving 35% of the vote, with drug abuse and smoking coming in at a close second and third.
What is perhaps equally concerning are the presence of three new items on the list: bullying, ADD, and environmental toxins. While there is no definitive link between these items and obesity, some studies suggest that there is a possible connection between ADHD and obesity. In addition, children with obesity may be more likely to experience bullying from their peers. What this says about the current state of children’s health in this country is simple: it is vital to begin focusing on a healthier lifestyle for our children as well as for ourselves. Doing so may not only reduce the risk of medical conditions such as type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure, but it may also improve the overall happiness and quality of life for both children and adults.
It isn’t hard to understand why obesity is such a problem for children in today’s society. Just take a look at the advertisements currently being marketed toward children and you’ll be surprised to find an astonishing amount of unhealthy practices being glorified. Children are giving up playing outside in favor of spending time playing video games or surfing the internet. While these activities are fine to an extent, a lifestyle built around fast-food and video games inevitably fails to lead to a healthy, active future.
In addition, with the prevalence of fast-food and the overwhelming presence of candy bars, pop, and chips, it isn’t hard to see why so many young people struggle with their weight. Schools contribute to the problem as well, with high-calorie lunches being marketed toward kids. With companies like YoNaturals working to build a healthier future, perhaps we can look forward to a year when obesity will no longer be at the top of the list for children’s health concerns.
Article by Bethany Cox for YoNaturals.com