Childhood Obesity Research

Research Summary

Regardless of the debate of how the issue should be handled, it is evident that childhood obesity is a serious issue that needs to be handled. Through my research, I have learned that childhood obesity has tripled in the past thirty years, and now one in three children are obese. Additionally, the rates of childhood obesity are highest among minorities including African Americans, Hispanics and Native Americans. According to Michelle Obama, the government spends tons of money already in efforts to prevent childhood obesity: "We've seen the cost to our economy-- how we're spending almost $150 billion every year to treat-obesity related conditions" (Obama).
With the support of First Lady Michelle Obama, Congress is working on The Child Nutrition Bill to help get healthier meals into schools. Schools who participate in the program will be rewarded. Additionally, the bill will "help eliminate junk food from vending machines a la carte lines -- a major step that is supported by parents, health-experts, and many in the food and beverage industry"(Obama).

Works Cited:
Obama, Michelle. "A food bill we need." The New York Times 2 August 2010: nytimes.com. Web. 12 November 2011.