Obesity Case

Obesity is a growing problem in America. More than one third of adults are obese, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). And because obesity often leads to secondary diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure, obesity-related costs have skyrocketed in the United States. This issue affects Americans in all walks of life. Between 2007 and 2008, the obesity rate increased at all income and education levels. If we truly want to solve the obesity epidemic in America, we must start with the youth.

As it has often been stated, the youth is the future. If children grow up with good habits, they are more likely to carry those habits into adulthood, and pass them onto their children. It has clearly been shown that children are better at adapting to a new lifestyle than adults, so starting with the youth is a very realistic approach. For instance, children can typically learn new languages more quickly than adults.

So how, exactly, do we engage the nation's youth? There are many ways, but the most important involve the parents, the schools, and communicating a strong sense of personal responsibility. Ultimately, it is your choice and your choice alone to make healthy eating and exercise choices. However, your parents and your school can give you the tools you need to succeed. For instance, parents can include their children in preparing healthy meals, or encourage them to join athletic teams instead of playing video games. They can also make being healthy fun, by making sure that they have plenty of time o0utside, or by watching shows like "The Biggest Loser." Your school can teach you the basics of nutrition, and the benefits of eating a varied diet rich and fruits and vegetables. Schools can also provide an outlet for children to be active during gym class.

On a national scale, figures like First Lady Michelle Obama have created an awareness campaign for healthy living through her "Let's Move" initiative. The first lady has traveled from state to state, showing young people the benefits of eating healthy and being active. She has published a cook book called "American Grown," and regularly appears on national television programs. The first lady has even planted her own vegetable garden at the White House, to indicate the importance of whole, natural foods.

Obesity is a growing issue in America, but one that we can make lasting efforts to fix.