What Causes Childhood Obesity?

Childhood obesity happens because too many calories are taken in and not enough physical activity. Obesity now affects 17% of all children and adolescents in the United States - triple the rate from just one generation ago.

Why focus on food and physical activity factors?

There are a many factors that decide whether or not the healthy choice is the easy choice for children and their parents. American society has changed to eating less healthy foods and less activity. It can be difficult for children to make healthy food choices and get enough physical activity when they are seeing the following factors in their home, child care center, school, or community.

• Sugar drinks and less healthy foods in schools: Many school-aged children eat and drink meals and snacks in schools that do not offer sugar-free drinks and healthier foods. Vending machines, school canteens, fund raisers, school parties and even sporting events promote unhealthy choices.
• Advertising of less healthy foods: Some middle- and high schools allow advertising of less healthy foods. Students are swayed to make those choices instead of healthier foods. On TV and radio, many foods are advertised and directed towards children and teens. Advertising for healthier foods is hardly seen.
• Varying Licenses among child care centers: Many children in the U.S. are cared for in daycare centers and personal homes. However, not all states have rules for their childcare centers that encourage healthier eating or physical activity.
  There are no simple solutions to solve childhood obesity. But knowing about state and community resources can help parents make better choices for your child and help the entire neighborhood.

Adapted from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention and in the public domain