[Problem and Solution] Overweight children increasing

The percentage of overweight children in western society has increased by almost 20% in the last ten years. Discuss the causes and solutions for this disturbing trend. 

Causes: 

Increased consumption of fast food / sugary drinks – because they are more readily available and in many cases more well promoted (advertisements / vending machines at schools)

Has a more sedentary lifestyle (exercise less – play video games more / study more, so sit more)

Solutions:

Parents should limit consumption of fast food for children and these types of foods should not be promoted / available at school

It should be mandatory for children to pick up sports after school – school should incentivize this to happen 

The alarming rise in the percentage of overweight children has become an increasingly controversial issue in western society. There are several reasons why this is happening, but I believe that it can be alleviated if educational institutions as well as parents work hand in hand to address this issue. 

One of the primary causes contributing to the surge in childhood obesity is the availability and aggressive promotion of fast food and sugary drinks. These easily accessible, often enticing options are not only prevalent in various eateries but are also marketed through commercials and vending machines, especially within schools. The result is a considerable increase in the consumption of sugar, which contributes significantly to the obesity epidemic among children. Furthermore, children’s lifestyle has become increasingly sedentary, and many now spend more time playing video games or dedicating extended hours to academic pursuits. This means they are less likely to participate in sports and other physical activities, leading to obesity. 

Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach. Parents must take a proactive role in regulating their children’s diets, placing limitations on the consumption of fast food and sugary drinks. Simultaneously, schools should eliminate or significantly reduce the availability and promotion of such unhealthy options within their premises. Instead, they should put a greater emphasis on physical activities, making it mandatory for children to engage in sports after school. By integrating sports programs and providing encouragement, schools can contribute significantly to reversing the sedentary trend and promoting healthier lifestyles.

In conclusion, the rise in childhood obesity is a pressing issue rooted in the increased consumption of unhealthy foods and a more sedentary lifestyle. By implementing a suitable course of action, schools and parents can play an active role in extinguishing this issue.

284 Words – Band 8.0