That Happened!

New York - Economists say that television advertisements contribute to childhood obesity. Economists have said that banning fast food advertisements from television shows that children watch would reduce the number of overweight children in the United States of America. The number of overweight children could decrease by eighteen percent if this action was taken. Overweight teenagers would also be affected by this action. The number of overweight teenagers would decrease by fourteen percent.

found fast-food commercials account for as much as 23 percent of the food-related ads kids see on TV

The study suggested that the problem that causes childhood obesity is the fact that children see so many television advertisements that promote unhealthy food choices. This can cause children to gain weight which affects their overall health and well-being.

“Our study provides evidence of that link,” said study co-author Michael Grossman, an economics professor at City University of New York.

Burger King and McDonald’s which are two large and recognizable fast food chains are now airing television advertisements that promote healthier foods for children. These healthier meals have low fat milk, juice boxes, apple sticks, and other healthy alternatives for children.

“I can’t help think that two huge chains advertising apples and milk to kids is going to be affecting children’s preferences,” said Elaine Kolish, a spokesman for the Council of Better Business Bureaus.

Childhood obesity is becoming a huge problem in the United States of America. Children are consuming way too much fast food and junk food. They want to eat what they see advertised on television.

Children need to eat a well balanced diet. Many children eat too much fast food and junk food because it is convenient. Parents should not buy their children foods that contain a lot of calories, fat, and sugar. You need to be responsible when you feed your children because childhood obesity has many health complications associated with it.

Children who are overweight and obese can have body image issues because they are made fun of at school by their classmates. Obese and overweight children can have issues with diabetes and heart issues. This is a very serious issue that needs to be addressed because obese and overweight children usually continue those unhealthy habits through adulthood.

Parents need to have good eating habits because children will make their own eating habits similar to the ones that their parents have. If you eat junk food and fast food on a regular basis then chances are your children will do the exact same thing. You need to eat a balanced diet and show your children that it is important to eat fruits and vegetables. Many children just want to eat junk food so they ignore healthier alternative like fruits and vegetables.

Television advertisements are a part of the problem but parents are the ones who have the money that is needed to buy the products. If parents refuse to buy these unhealthy items for their children then childhood obesity rates will decrease.

About a third of American kids are overweight or obese, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates.