Editorial: Chew on this - Philly.com

Editorial: Chew on this - Philly.com

According to the latest statistics, roughly one of every three children between the ages of 6 and 19 is overweight or obese. That's a recipe for a looming national disaster that must be addressed before it's too late.

Many of these children will suffer later in life from obesity-related problems such as diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure. Many will die at a younger age than their parents.

Recognizing this, first lady Michelle Obama turned a much- needed national spotlight on the problem last week with the unveiling of an ambitious plan to combat childhood obesity. The campaign, known as "Let's Move," seeks to end childhood obesity within the next generation.

The four-pronged plan will try to help parents make better food choices, ensure that healthier food is served in schools, make healthy and affordable food more available, and encourage children to get more exercise.

National business leaders and health advocates have joined the campaign, and President Obama has created a task force to develop other recommendations.

Congress can do its part when it takes up reauthorization of the Child Nutrition Act, which provides funding for school breakfast and lunch programs. The Department of Agriculture wants the law to include higher nutritional standards for school food.

Experts believe a healthier school environment would help keep children on track nutritionally. Most consume half of their daily calories at school. Many aren't getting recommended levels of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products.

Larger government subsidies would allow school districts such as Philadelphia's to provide meals to more students. But the schools can also help more students by using the Let's Move model to serve more nutritious meals and eliminate junk food and sodas from vending machines. Children also need more physical activity.

Of course, an effective response to childhood obesity should begin in the home. American adults have struggled with obesity for years; now their children are following in their footsteps. Schools can help, but parents must provide children with better meal choices, and encourage them to be physically fit.