Junk food and American society go hand in hand. Unfortunately, junk food is so widely accepted that many people fail understanding the dangers connected to its consumption. These dangers become even bigger when the life and health of children come under consideration.
According to the Journal of Clinical Nutrition, the diet of children in the US has largely decreased in quality. Poor nutrition has caused an increase in childhood obesity figures. Obesity is associated to many diseases that affect growing number of children today.
The problem is that peer pressure and current trends have the amazing power to affect kids and the choices they make.
Parents know that making healthy eating habitual can be exceptionally difficult. The lack of time and financial resources will often interfere with the choices that parents make.
In addition, society accepts junk food. Many people say that it is ok and children soak up this information. Once they learn that burgers and fries are acceptable, it would be very difficult to change the situation and promote healthy eating habits.
As a result, 17 percent of children and teenagers are obese. This percentage is three times higher than obesity statistics one generation ago. Such figures are certainly something to worry about.
No wonder why children are gaining excess weight. Looking at statistics for adults provides some valuable information. According to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Americans get 27 percent of their daily energy from junk food. This figure is unbelievably high. People accept junk food and are not even looking for healthier opportunities.
Misconceptions about what constitutes healthy food affects dietary habits, as well. Many people believe that the food they are eating is actually good. As a result, they end up consuming frozen dinners and diet ice cream. Instead of going for fresh options like fruits and vegetables, many Americans select the fat-free alternatives of the foods they love and crave.
Parents should not be the sole entity to blame for the skyrocketing childhood obesity figures. The manner in which society functions is also very capable of influencing a young mind.
Fast food is readily available. A fast food restaurant can be found at every corner. Further, junk meals get serious media attention. They are advertised all the time and fast food chains use many strategies to appeal to young ones. Kid menus, toys and other treats are used to tempt children into selecting a burger over an apple.
Parents today are working hard. Moms and dads often lack the time to plan meals or to cook in advance. When everybody gets back home, the family starts wondering. The result very often is eating out and selecting meals that are rather inappropriate for a young and still growing organism.
Both parents and schools should encourage healthy eating. Overcoming peer pressure could be difficult but it certainly is worth the effort when the child’s health and well-being are put on the table.
You are certainly struggling to balance your professional and personal obligations. Encouraging your kid to eat healthy food can be very difficult. How do you do it? Share your ideas and get advice from other parents who are in a similar situation.
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