According to recent statistics, child obesity in the United States has multiplied three times in the past three decades, and in 2008, one in every three adolescents were obese or overweight. Sobering statistics on childhood obesity leave school managers little choice but to work towards healthier food options. School cafeterias and the government are combining efforts and joining forces to work against these growing numbers.
Currently the USDA is starting the process of implementing better guidelines for beverages and food items that are not part of the federal meal programs, such as food from vending machines or school stores. In addition, countless individuals think that school meals themselves need to include more whole grains, vegetables and fruit.
American schools are joining the fight to combat obesity among students both now and in the future. Teachers are trying to add more physical activity to classroom lessons, and administrators are becoming more aware of the problem.
Not only will better food help the children, but it will also help their parents make healthier food choices, too. For example, often poorer families have diminutive access to healthy food, but if the USDA implemented higher standards for school cafeterias, it would positively impact families with little income. One reporter explains further, “All children would benefit from new nutrition guidelines, particularly those in vulnerable populations. Students from low-income families who participate in free and reduced-priced meal programs would be more likely to buy healthier foods after implementation”.
Creative Commons Love: bookgrl on Flickr.com
About the Author
Comments