Overweight Kids: Are Corporations to Blame?

Have you heard of the advertising slogan for the popular chip, Pringles? "Once you pop, you can't stop!" has an intended meaning that once you pop off the lid, you can't stop eating. These types of advertisements are very persuasive.

When is the last time you saw an advertisement for fruits and vegetables?

Soda, chips, hot dogs, french fries and pizza are some of the main lunch items that are served in school cafeterias. Sodas are the leading source of added sugar in children's diets.

Endocrinologist, professor, and author, Dr. Francine R. Kaufman, MD, points out that the National School Lunch Program, which was established in the 1950's to provide nutritious meals at a low subsidized price, has been augmented over time and in many cases supplanted by what are termed "competitive foods."

"Competitive foods" compete with USDA meals and are sold at the snack line in the cafeteria and in vending machines in schools.

Who has allowed our schools to be infiltrated by giant corporations?

The food industry should be held accountable to promote healthier choices rather than contributing to a widespread epidemic.

Happily, as Dr. Kaufman points out, some enlightened school districts have begun to fight back. She also shares the things you can do as a parent and as a part of society to prevent and reverse these unhealthy trends.