A common sight is a child wolfing down French fries at the local fast-food restaurant or stuffing themselves with potato chips, ice cream and cookies in front of the television set. Before our very eyes, American children are becoming obese. Since 1960, the incidence of childhood obesity has increased fifty percent, and about one fifth of American youngsters weigh more than they should. Obesity is a serious health risk because it leads to a broad range of physical and psychological problems.
Childhood obesity is already the leading cause of sustained high blood pressure in children.
It also contributes to diabetes, high cholesterol level, joint disease, menstrual irregularities, and other hormonal derangements. Since excess weight in childhood is likely to be carried over into adulthood, over weight children will be more predisposed to obesity-related chronic illness. The psychological effects of childhood obesity can be equally devastating. Overweight youngsters are frequently teased by their peers and adults as individuals who are less desirable to have as friends. Jokes poking fun at overweight people are common in our society.