PO '76- Halloween edition

Childhood obesity has become a phenomenon, rapidly rising throughout the world. The obesity epidemic is especially evident in industrialized nations where many people live sedentary lives and eat more convenience foods, which are typically high in calories and low in nutritional value.

According to the Mayo Clinic, in just two decades, the prevalence of overweight doubled for U.S. children ages 6 to 11 — and tripled for American teenagers. The annual National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that about one-third of U.S. children are overweight or at risk of becoming overweight. In total, about 25 million U.S. children and adolescents are overweight or nearly overweight.

Since the number one killer of all Americans in heart conditions, there is a national interest in insuring that children eat healthier.

The fight has begun at our nation’s schools.

ES-M has become the first district in Central New York to prohibit outright sweet desserts in classroom celebrations. Chances are pretty good others in the region will follow, school nutrition experts say.

Across our region, school districts are examining what they sell in vending machines, concession stands and fundraisers and what is served during classroom parties. Many discourage sugary sweets but don't ban them.

Is it the job of the government to make sure kids are eating healthy foods? Is the government regulating our diet too slippery of a slope?

Happy Halloween!