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I think it is great that the First Lady is challenging America to eat better. I tried with my children when they were young. (They are now 26 and 27) It was great until they started school – then it was OK because they went to a private Christian school – then it was awful went to Public School. At that time, they had vending machines in the Jr. High School, and in the snack bar they had pizza, candy, chips, etc.
I always made sure my boys got their breakfast every morning. I still tell them today they need fuel to get going in the mornings.
My youngest son would not eat lunch until Fridays, so he could get a bigger slice(s) of pizza. He was always a picky eater.
My oldest son and his wife go through the drive-thru on almost a daily basis and feed my grandchildren all that junk. Some days I want to cry, but I try to encourage the kids to at least eat more fruit and vegetables. Although they use a lot of Ranch, they love most fresh vegetables.
The government has been working to revamp America’s diet to include nutrition and exercise, but the First Lady is taking it to a new level in overall awareness.
I always made sure my boys got their breakfast every morning. I still tell them today they need fuel to get going in the mornings.
My youngest son would not eat lunch until Fridays, so he could get a bigger slice(s) of pizza. He was always a picky eater.
My oldest son and his wife go through the drive-thru on almost a daily basis and feed my grandchildren all that junk. Some days I want to cry, but I try to encourage the kids to at least eat more fruit and vegetables. Although they use a lot of Ranch, they love most fresh vegetables.
The government has been working to revamp America’s diet to include nutrition and exercise, but the First Lady is taking it to a new level in overall awareness.
87
The "government" is *us* and it's great to see *us* rally around issues other than needless wars and instead focus on something that is actually helpful and good.
All First Ladies pick an issue to advocate and this is the one Michelle Obama has chosen. Kudos to her and I wish her all the best with it.
Lord knows our children are in a mess physically and private industry has made a LOT of money by putting junk on the shelves filled with all kinds of unhealthy ingredients.
Meanwhile, because of 8 years of slash and burn economic and tax policies, physical education programs are all but non-existent in our schools. We have had a "government" focused on being selfish, greedy and focused on the richest 1%.
Time for a change. Our children deserve better.
I am very happy our First Lady is focusing on this. She is a great, healthy, beautiful role model. Like-minded people will be inspired to do better. Un-like-minded people will do whatever it is they do. That's just how it goes in life, and always has.
All First Ladies pick an issue to advocate and this is the one Michelle Obama has chosen. Kudos to her and I wish her all the best with it.
Lord knows our children are in a mess physically and private industry has made a LOT of money by putting junk on the shelves filled with all kinds of unhealthy ingredients.
Meanwhile, because of 8 years of slash and burn economic and tax policies, physical education programs are all but non-existent in our schools. We have had a "government" focused on being selfish, greedy and focused on the richest 1%.
Time for a change. Our children deserve better.
I am very happy our First Lady is focusing on this. She is a great, healthy, beautiful role model. Like-minded people will be inspired to do better. Un-like-minded people will do whatever it is they do. That's just how it goes in life, and always has.
86
I agree that school lunches need an overhaul. However, there are a large percentage of children who do not get meals at home, and parents are not around or taking time to teach children about nutrition. School lunches are higher in fat, but made economically. So, let's start with the focus on families. How about mandatory drug testing for those who get government aid; food stamps, etc....
85
Thank you First Lady Obama! Both school lunches and fitness education need an overhaul. We banned school lunches in our home 2 years ago. We follow a couple very simple food rules from Michael Pollan: 1) If you can't see it growing or standing in a field then don't eat it (we added swimming in water nearby, to this); 2) If a 3rd grader can't pronounce the ingredients then don't eat it; and 3) Only eat food with 5 ingredients or fewer. These have certainly helped our family.
Having a united front where obesity is addressed at home and in the schools is a great idea!
Having a united front where obesity is addressed at home and in the schools is a great idea!
84
Although it is ultimately the parents' responsibility, it does effect every one of us. Obese children become obese adults with serious health problems. An overweight society places a burden on every back within that community, think higher health care costs, benefits for those unable to work due to poor health, and early deaths among the working class. It has to stop somewhere, and sometimes it DOES take a village to raise a child. No, it will not help everyone, but even if it helps just a few, aren't those children worth the effort? Should we really sit back and do nothing while this country gets sicker and fatter? I for one, am fully behind our First Lady with this initiative.
83
OMG! With all that's going on in the United States she can't find something more urgent to occupy her time? Moooooooore tax dollars wasted!
82
Vallough is so right. Please don't let politics get in the way here. There are so many children at free/reduce lunch levels in the United States. Some of these kids only meals are those they get at school.
81
I think what michelle obama is doing is great!
but I am not a parent yet. but I am going to still
continue what i am doing so that i can be a good example
to my 4 month old nephew.
80
For those of you who think that all health and nutritional information should be learned at home or who think the government doesn't need to stick its hands in the eating habits of American youths, think again. Millions of children across the country qualify for government subsidized free meal programs that are provided at schools. So for all of those parents who have the time and money to pack a healthy lunch for their child and fix him a healthy breakfast, there's at least one child who is relying on their school's meal program for the majority of his nutrition. By prioritizing healthy food, healthy eating habits and exercise in children, the government WILL be able to make a real difference, simply by changing the menus at school and amping up existing health and fitness programs, like the Presidential Fitness Award and a school's health class. We DO have a true hunger issue in this country, and poor nutrition DOES negatively affect students' ability to perform well in school and in life. Don't let your politics get in the way of a child's ability to be healthy and successful. Education and health are beautiful things and everyone across the country should be given the same opportunities and correct information-- at base, children should not be the victim of food and lifestyle choices made FOR them and Mrs. Obama's plan seems to offer something promising for the development of good food habits.
My daughter started using the WII Fit Plus because she saw me doing it. She is ADHD and it is actually helping in her learn to focus and the amazing thing is it's helping her cordination. I keep a lot more fresh fruit and vegies in the house and my daughter prefers both of them fresh so she is eating better and trying more things because of my example. Knock on wood she has her daddy's metabolism so she won't be one to get obese.
78
great blog. i think it should start at home but you really need to pay attention to the high schools because i work in one and we sell diet drinks but we also sell french fries and chicken that was fried.the control in the elementary school are good but high schools not so good
77
The children learn from others and their parents should be more "with it" regarding what their children eat--not so much fast food
76
Until parents set a good example, there will continue to be childhood obesity. I think it is good for the government to help people know what healthy eating and exercise are, but putting so much attention on children may end up back-firing. Children and teens already have weight issues on both ends of the spectrum - from obesity to anorexia. Many of these stem from self-esteem issues that start at home. Until parents break bad habits learned from their parents, nothing will change.
75
Amazing to learn about being overweight. Not much more to be obese.
74
The hospital in Logansport IN is working with the schools to reduce student BMI. They have a contest going between the schools to lower their overall BMI during the school year, and the winning school receives $10,000 from a local charitable trust. This really helps motivate the school teachers and administration to make it a priority, especially now that budgets are so very tight. It's really cool!!
73
I thought the fight on obesity in general (adults and children alike) was first started by Bill Clinton when the press would tape him going for a run every morning? I don't see how the First Lady's move here is really anything new or novel. If people are going to take responsibility for how their children develop and grow, they will, otherwise, no amount of government spoon-feeding will be a solution to obesity. As well, if children have no interest in needing to be thin so long as they are happy, they are going to negate any efforts anyone (ESPECIALLY non-parental authorities) imposes on them, regardless if it's "good for them" or not.
Government actions in the lives of private citizens with regard to weight-loss is NOT the answer.
Government actions in the lives of private citizens with regard to weight-loss is NOT the answer.
72
I don't think anything harms in moderation - in other words, if people can be re-educated about eating habits and learn that a little bit of what they fancy won't harm rather than depriving themselves which makes them want a certain food more, and that eating healthily and taking exercise should be a way of life and not 'just after christmas' then hopefully we will be on the right track to banishing obesity.
I do believe that children gain their eating habits by watching their parents - lets face it, we teach them almost everything else so why wouldn't they pick this up too! - though obviously there are outside influences like school and adverts on the television to name a few. But if we as parents can teach them how to eat correctly and have a healthy lifestyle, hopefully their futures will be much brighter.
I do believe that children gain their eating habits by watching their parents - lets face it, we teach them almost everything else so why wouldn't they pick this up too! - though obviously there are outside influences like school and adverts on the television to name a few. But if we as parents can teach them how to eat correctly and have a healthy lifestyle, hopefully their futures will be much brighter.
71
Bringing attention to the issue does help. I agree that healthy habits are taught in the home. Personal responsibility is also an important lesson to learn!
70
This is a positive position for anyone in the White House to take...regardless of party affiliation. Being an educator, parent and grandparent, I am aware that many schools/ communities are missing the point of gym classes. Gym, in most communities, has changed little in the last 40 years! Exercise is the point of gym class. Exercise is personal and totally dependent on what the individual is capable of doing. Gym classes need to be individualized...with many options...so that each student can be working on improving their physical stamina and develop positive life-long patterns of fitness. Thanks to Michelle for stepping up...and using her presence to draw attention to the issue.
69
Michelle Obama's influence on healthy eating, exercising, and good nutrition as part of school lunches will make an impact. This lady continues to impress me by being a spokesman for a national problem---focusing on what we can and should be doing to fight obesity.
I am not a fan of the Obama's but I agree with Chris Downie, regardless of my political affiliation, I support the First Lady in using her position of influence to continue to raise awareness of this very serious issue and put the spotlight on it more. However, please, please, please do not create a new government program full of bureaucrats that uses tax $ we do not have - there are enough private organizations, like Spark People, who can do the job of education and assistance and tackle the issue so much more effectively. Private enterprise ALWAYS trumps any government program.
67
Obesity has become a very serious problem and it is spreading around the world. I currently live overseas in the Middle East and see first-hand the effect American fast foods and processed foods are having here. It's no wonder they have hospitals entirely dedicated to diabetes patients. If you ask me, the more influential people, such as First Lady Michelle Obama, we can get involved, the better. My brother -in-law works for a company that runs cafeterias and restaurants around the world. He was telling me that highest budget for foods per person (at around 98 cents per day) in any government institution was in prisons. Guess where the lowest budget is (at I believe less than 50 cents per day)?? Public schools! Yes, ladies and gentlemen, prisoners are eating better than our children! That is beyond sickening to me. It's not hard to realize that things are beyond backwards in our country. Praise to all of you who work everyday for your yourself and your family to become a healthier version of yourself. Take a stand at your children's schools and at home to make sure they are getting the healthiest and best life possible. Every little bit helps!
66
i absolutely agree with lola551. healthy children are everyone's responsibility. an old African proverb says that children belong to the community and not to the parents. whether you have kids or not, this is a worthwhile cause, and its not limited to just America. childhood obesity is all over the world and it has to do with our lifestyle. eating out, packaged meals, soft drinks all day long, no exercise,etc. we really need to spread the spark so that more peoples lives can be changed
65
One big need I see for families is on "visitation" weekends in divorced families. The parent and kids need a place to go or a place to be that would involve some movement and some healthy meals at no or low cost.
64
So sad that so many people react with partisanship rather than appreciating the healthy changes that might occur. When Laura Bush announced her cause was going to be education and reading, and teamed up with the Library of Congress to promote the National Book Festival, do you suppose any discouraged her? Did people worry that she taking away their choices to read, do you think? I doubt it.
Michelle Obama is a smart, energetic person. Childhood obesity is a serious problem. It's good to have smart, energetic people focus their talents on serious problems.
Michelle Obama is a smart, energetic person. Childhood obesity is a serious problem. It's good to have smart, energetic people focus their talents on serious problems.
63
I personally think we are loosing our freedom of choice. Yes, there is a lot of obesity in the country,but does the government have to get involved in all the problems of the general public. What happened to being accountable for our own actions.
62
My granddaughters love to exercise with me. They watch and then mimic what ever exercise I am doing. I praise them for their efforts. It is great to teach by example. When they are with me, I truly believe they eat better too because there is no junk food in my home.
61
A great blog- thanks!
Our First Lady has so much class- ad she has great things to say!
Our First Lady has so much class- ad she has great things to say!
60
I don't know if there is a simple answer to this problem. There are so many levels...like an onion that you keep peeling.
I would like to be so bold and say that all these hours that the children sit in front of video games, computers, etc. has got to be part of the problem. When was the last time these children actually went outside to play..or had chores to do that worked off the calories?
I would like to be so bold and say that all these hours that the children sit in front of video games, computers, etc. has got to be part of the problem. When was the last time these children actually went outside to play..or had chores to do that worked off the calories?
59
I see my kids eat 'til they're full, then leave, and feel incredibly blessed. (I don't understand 'em, but I know I'm blessed!)
This is a great START. But (sorry, polemic ahead), until CORPORATE America starts believing that it's long-terms strategy is to give people HEALTHY food instead of CHEAP food, not much will change. Advertising targets the vulnerable to purchase the highest profit items. We've got to give corporations the same set of morals folks seem to espouse to having in order to turn the tide on obesity.
This is a great START. But (sorry, polemic ahead), until CORPORATE America starts believing that it's long-terms strategy is to give people HEALTHY food instead of CHEAP food, not much will change. Advertising targets the vulnerable to purchase the highest profit items. We've got to give corporations the same set of morals folks seem to espouse to having in order to turn the tide on obesity.
58
YES Everything has a domino effect healthier kids, stronger future, great generation....
57
Should the government really be involved with this at all with everything else going on? REally!
56
How about bringing back real Health Education classes along with Home Economics. With all the cutbacks in education and teaching to some test (depending on your state) classes that don't relate to the test are first cut. But, teaching out students to cook healthy easy meals, the ABCs of good nutrition, healthy exercising and good general healthy life practices. Invest in trained teachers with a solid background in nutrition and health education and not just physical education. Ensure that they are up to date on their own education with regular continuing education.
I've worked in the schools and ran groups and made it a point to take a student to go shopping for snacks. Snacks consisted of fruits, whole grain breads and other healthy items. Off list were cookies, cakes, chips and the student had to make the decision based on lables. They had to try something different they never had before and to introduce it to the rest of the group. One chose red pears and everyone in the group frown and didn't want to try them until one by one they did take one, later it turned out that these students were buying more red pears as it was their favorite pear. I learned how important it is to expose students to new items. Introducing vegetables that can be eaten raw with creative homemade dips. Let's see how that goes.
I've worked in the schools and ran groups and made it a point to take a student to go shopping for snacks. Snacks consisted of fruits, whole grain breads and other healthy items. Off list were cookies, cakes, chips and the student had to make the decision based on lables. They had to try something different they never had before and to introduce it to the rest of the group. One chose red pears and everyone in the group frown and didn't want to try them until one by one they did take one, later it turned out that these students were buying more red pears as it was their favorite pear. I learned how important it is to expose students to new items. Introducing vegetables that can be eaten raw with creative homemade dips. Let's see how that goes.
55
Tackling childhood obesity has to be done at so many levels. Parents and families have to make the commitment to living a healthy lifestyle. Parents and grandparents have to be the models that children follow.
Schools have an obligation to provide healthy breakfasts, lunches and plenty of opportunity for children to be active every day. Health education can begin at an early age within schools as a part of science and health classes.
And at a government level (yes, it has to take a role as well), there have to be incentives for stores to locate in neighborhoods so as to provide communities with fresh wholesome food. Farmers' markets may need some type of assistance to get started in lower income neighborhoods. Unfortunately, there are many people who do not have easy access to well stocked grocery stores. Yes Virginia! It's true! If you don't believe me, research Avondale, a neighborhood in Cincinnati. The only neighborhood grocery chain store closed in the Avondale Town Center about 2 years ago.
Many of us take for granted that healthy food is readily available. Many of us take for granted our knowledge about food, exercise, and their impact on health.
As someone else wrote, we've made inroads into educating the public on the dangers of cigarettes, SIDS, HIV/AIDS, and any number of other health issues. It's no different with childhood/adult obesity.
We also have to make sure that people have access to information about living a healthy lifestyle.
Schools have an obligation to provide healthy breakfasts, lunches and plenty of opportunity for children to be active every day. Health education can begin at an early age within schools as a part of science and health classes.
And at a government level (yes, it has to take a role as well), there have to be incentives for stores to locate in neighborhoods so as to provide communities with fresh wholesome food. Farmers' markets may need some type of assistance to get started in lower income neighborhoods. Unfortunately, there are many people who do not have easy access to well stocked grocery stores. Yes Virginia! It's true! If you don't believe me, research Avondale, a neighborhood in Cincinnati. The only neighborhood grocery chain store closed in the Avondale Town Center about 2 years ago.
Many of us take for granted that healthy food is readily available. Many of us take for granted our knowledge about food, exercise, and their impact on health.
As someone else wrote, we've made inroads into educating the public on the dangers of cigarettes, SIDS, HIV/AIDS, and any number of other health issues. It's no different with childhood/adult obesity.
We also have to make sure that people have access to information about living a healthy lifestyle.
54
Tackling childhood obesity has to be done at so many levels. Parents and families have to make the commitment to living a healthy lifestyle. Parents and grandparents have to be the models that children follow.
Schools have an obligation to provide healthy breakfasts, lunches and plenty of opportunity for children to be active every day. Health education can begin at an early age within schools as a part of science and health classes.
And at a government level (yes, it has to take a role as well), there have to be incentives for stores to locate in neighborhoods so as to provide communities with fresh wholesome food. Farmers' markets may need some type of assistance to get started in lower income neighborhoods. Unfortunately, there are many people who do not have easy access to well stocked grocery stores. Yes Virginia! It's true! If you don't believe me, research Avondale, a neighborhood in Cincinnati. The only neighborhood grocery chain store closed in the Avondale Town Center about 2 years ago.
Many of us take for granted that healthy food is readily available. Many of us take for granted our knowledge about food, exercise, and their impact on health.
As someone else wrote, we've made inroads into educating the public on the dangers of cigarettes, SIDS, HIV/AIDS, and any number of other health issues. It's no different with childhood/adult obesity.
We also have to make sure that people have access to information about living a healthy lifestyle.
Schools have an obligation to provide healthy breakfasts, lunches and plenty of opportunity for children to be active every day. Health education can begin at an early age within schools as a part of science and health classes.
And at a government level (yes, it has to take a role as well), there have to be incentives for stores to locate in neighborhoods so as to provide communities with fresh wholesome food. Farmers' markets may need some type of assistance to get started in lower income neighborhoods. Unfortunately, there are many people who do not have easy access to well stocked grocery stores. Yes Virginia! It's true! If you don't believe me, research Avondale, a neighborhood in Cincinnati. The only neighborhood grocery chain store closed in the Avondale Town Center about 2 years ago.
Many of us take for granted that healthy food is readily available. Many of us take for granted our knowledge about food, exercise, and their impact on health.
As someone else wrote, we've made inroads into educating the public on the dangers of cigarettes, SIDS, HIV/AIDS, and any number of other health issues. It's no different with childhood/adult obesity.
We also have to make sure that people have access to information about living a healthy lifestyle.
53
The problem IS awareness for some; the problem IS laziness for some; and there are a multitude of other reasons for others...there is NEVER one reason our society is the way it is...if the initiative will help one or one million then it has done its job. Good grief...
52
Wow, looked how ripped she is! I love that our government officials are committed to health, I think people really oversimplify the matter by chalking it up to ''bad choices'' of an individual. If you've got one person with a problem, you've got an individual problem. But when you have national trends, patterns and statistical data that indicate a significant change over time, it is silly not to acknowledge something is going on with the environment. Read ''The End of Overeating'' if you want a neuropsychological understanding of overeating as well as a deeper understanding of how our culture exploits our biological instinct to eat sweets and fat. People CAN make choices to change, but the way our society is structured can have a tremendous impact on creating incentives for making the right choices.
51
I think raising public awareness and providing education is a good step. Such initiatives in the past have placed SIDS at the forefront of public education- remember the back to sleep campaigns reminding to place infants on their backs? Handwashing for H1N1 was another. Ultimately the foods parents give their children is an individual choice, but it should be an educated choice.
50
Turn off the tv, video games, and the computer. How about good old fashioned playing outside?
49
Are we really going to sit back and let other people take what should be our responsibility? How sad.
I don't care if it's President Bush's wife, President Obama's wife, or President Clinton's wife.
48
It's up to us, the parents. I don't care what anybody says. It starts in the home. Our children will learn healthy eating habits from us. When I was in school (over 10 years ago) we brown bagged it. It's that simple.
It doesn't take a village to raise a child. It takes PARENTS to raise a child.
47
I am reading all the government bashing on this blog and I don't like what I am reading. It's so sad to me that The First Lady Obama (no one ever refers to her title) is actually trying to raise awareness on CHILDHOOD OBESITY. I know that this is the responsibility of the parent and the choices that a parent makes for their child and what the parent feeds the child. Also the ability of the parent to say NO when the child is wanting junk food.
I guess that I would expect an anti-government individual to be totally against what The First Lady Obama is launching but come on PEOPLE it's a positive initiative!!
I guess that I would expect an anti-government individual to be totally against what The First Lady Obama is launching but come on PEOPLE it's a positive initiative!!
46
Our school system has made many changes and offer very healthy food. It's not mandatory to eat food provided by the school and more kids bring their own lunches or don't eat at all. So I'm not sure the gov't is going to do any good. It's easy to talk about these things, but with schools struggling financially, the gov't should be offering extra aid via money for schools to make these healthy changes. Too many times the gov't offers more money, but the schools never see it.
45
I was an overweight child. Not only did other children make fun of me but at times I would overhear adults making cruel remarks. I'll never forget hearing one woman say I'm sure glad my granddaughter doesn't look like that. My bioligical child was overweight too. He is still overweight as an adult. We have both struggled all of our lives with weight issues. My husband and I adopted 3 children. Luckily they have not had any weight problems. Their biological mother was thin but the biological father wasn't. Luckily they all get a lot of exercise. We bought them a Wii for Christmas to keep them more active in the winter. I fix healthier dishes now. Sometimes the kids will eat them but other times they won't. The oldest will eat a lot more things then the 2 younger ones.
44
I agree with those who have said that we resent the government stepping in, but yet, we've done a horrible job on our own in trying to fight childhood obesity. There is no simple solution to this. But what the First Lady is doing is a start and I applaud her for doing this.
The First Lady is not the government. The First Lady is the wife of the President.
There are things that the government can do that are not intrusive on our personal lives to help with this problem. As others have mentioned, the federal government subsidizes the school lunch programs. Since they are spending money (our money) to the schools, why can't they mandate that the schools spend "our" money on healthy food? Corn is subsidized heavily, which makes things like high fructose corn syrup cheap to produce. Why can't the federal govt. subsidize fresh produce instead of corn?
The First Lady is not the government. The First Lady is the wife of the President.
There are things that the government can do that are not intrusive on our personal lives to help with this problem. As others have mentioned, the federal government subsidizes the school lunch programs. Since they are spending money (our money) to the schools, why can't they mandate that the schools spend "our" money on healthy food? Corn is subsidized heavily, which makes things like high fructose corn syrup cheap to produce. Why can't the federal govt. subsidize fresh produce instead of corn?
43
wow, quite a difference on opinions here. While nobody wants more "government" or "spending". I don't really think that this is really MORE government...just taking charge of what is already out there. The school lunch programs are already funded, but we see where that goes to...junk food. My son's grade school offers fairly good lunches, and has a salad bar most days to make sure the kids are offered veggies/fruit, etc. However, I know that this is not the case in many schools, and that is where there needs to be some intervention. All schools should consistently offer healthy lunches to their students, and the day care centers (federally or personally funded) should offer healthy snacks. This should be a no-brainer, but obviously it's not...so if we need oversight on these issues, I'm all for it. If it means that kids get at least ONE healthy meal a day, great. It's up to the parents to take care of the other meals, but hopefully, with a little education, the kids will start ASKING for better meals at home also. I think we've probably all noticed that since we've started on SP...the better you eat, the better you want to eat.
42
I live in an area blessed with a multitude of open parks, great trails. The homes in my neighborhood have nice sized lots as well. I know there are children living here in my development. I see them getting off school buses. I very rarely see children in the parks or on the trails. The children I do see who are in the parks are under 10 and are accompanied by the families and there are not that many families in the parks. I can count on one hand out of all of the homes here where I ever actually see children playing outside. On the trails which are wide and nice for bikes, I can say I have seen two boys on three occasions riding this past year. I mostly see a few runners or some folks walking their dogs.
My husband and I comment frequently “Where are the children?” When we were growing up, we were always outside playing and going to the parks. We had a healthy breakfast at home; a healthy packed lunch for school, a healthy snack after school, dinner along with dessert at home and then the kitchen was closed for snacking; except for drinks such as milk, juice, etc. I believe that a child’s healthy lifestyle begins in the home and is the responsibility of the parent.
My husband and I comment frequently “Where are the children?” When we were growing up, we were always outside playing and going to the parks. We had a healthy breakfast at home; a healthy packed lunch for school, a healthy snack after school, dinner along with dessert at home and then the kitchen was closed for snacking; except for drinks such as milk, juice, etc. I believe that a child’s healthy lifestyle begins in the home and is the responsibility of the parent.
41
I love the idea. I can't see anything wrong with serving healthier foods in the schools and a little more Physical Ed. Yeah! for Michelle Obama.
40
I hope this program works but I have my doubts. Guess I'm a tad concerned ketchup might be designated a serving of vegetables again.
39
I personally think no amount of government "help" is going to help the obesity problem in America. It is already extremely easy for people to use free online resources (either at home or the library), go outside for a walk, check out health/fitness books at a library, etc... I don't believe the problem is awareness, the problem is laziness. Our society has placed more importance on watching x,y, or z TV show and less importance on getting outside to walk or take a bike ride. Parents claim "busyness" is preventing them from making meals at home. What is preventing them from making meals at home is their lack of planning and motivation to put healthy meals on their priority list.
38
I'm not expecting our elected officials to save me from myself. Knowledge is power. Before I found SparkPeople, I thought I was eating a balanced diet; through the Nutrition Tracker, I have re-educated myself. Since when is education and re-education of healthy living not part of responsible oversight of those in charge, be they parents, school officials, or elected officials?
I would hope a healthy living education program would empower people with the knowledge and motivation needed to move forward and take charge of their own success.
I would hope a healthy living education program would empower people with the knowledge and motivation needed to move forward and take charge of their own success.
37
What's wrong with some of you. Take charge of your lives. I am not waiting for anyone from the federal govt to save me from myself. You are responsible for you and yours. We are bombarded everyday with info on health and fitness, and have been for years. Take advantage of it. When you let govt take your private property (ie your money) for a "noble cause" you lose just a little more of your freedom and liberty. Frankly I have had enough of these do gooders telling us how to live when they can't even manage their own affairs. Sparkpeople has really helped my get my diet under control, it totally free and NOT a govt program. Glad to get that off my chest. Have a good day. I tried on a sleeveless dress that couldn't wear 20 pds ago and Michelle isn't the only one with great arms, and I am older than her. It just not that unique.
36
Agree with Jenniferboggess. We spend more Federal dollars than ever on pre, post and during school food programs, not to mention food stamps and welfare dollars, but now our kids are to Fat? Give me a break. This stuff starts at home and LOCAL communities and organizations. As we are learning on sparkpeople, it not that hard. The old program of move more and eat less works great. How about more emphasis on PE and sports and less on feeding everyone. Has anyone really thought we had a true hunger issue in this country
35
I myself am a victim of childhood obesity and so are all but one of my sisters out of 5 of us. At 28 I am just now starting to get a handle on the weight problem I have had all my life. I am glad that I am raising my kids in a healthy household so they dont have to deal with all the problems I did because of childhood obeseity.
Im happy that the government is stepping up and trying to correct this problem expecially within the school system. Kids spend the majority of their time in school and with unhealthy lunches, vending machines and little activity its harder for kids to have a healthy lifestyle.
My kids are not in elementary school yet but when they do attend I hope that the problems public schools have been solved. If not I will be packing my kids lunches and trying to make sure they get enough activity outside of school... I geuss thats all you can do.
Im happy that the government is stepping up and trying to correct this problem expecially within the school system. Kids spend the majority of their time in school and with unhealthy lunches, vending machines and little activity its harder for kids to have a healthy lifestyle.
My kids are not in elementary school yet but when they do attend I hope that the problems public schools have been solved. If not I will be packing my kids lunches and trying to make sure they get enough activity outside of school... I geuss thats all you can do.
34
The obesity rates are staggering. I would like to think that the government would actually help, but what about all the different issues on hand and they can't manage those. There is talk about cutting special programs, yet they can find money for this? What about Social Security? I don't think I need to go on.
33
First of all: Someone at SP PLEASE EDIT the third paragraph. The East Wing cannot speak....
Second: This is great. I'm so happy that Mrs.Obama is tackling this problem! But, I'm a little leery as to how long it will take to implement these changes. Government always seems to make things more difficult than they need to be. I'm hoping some changes will take place this year, not two or three years from now!
Second: This is great. I'm so happy that Mrs.Obama is tackling this problem! But, I'm a little leery as to how long it will take to implement these changes. Government always seems to make things more difficult than they need to be. I'm hoping some changes will take place this year, not two or three years from now!
32
As an overweight adult I know how hard it is sometimes to be confident enough to do some of the things I need to know. Kids already have so much going against them these days. Other kids are cruel. It really handicaps a child to be the object of vicious name calling and ridicule. Anything we can do to help children feel confident enough to do better in school and ultimately in life we should certainly do. Yes, Ms Obama this is a very worthy cause.
31
Yay, Michelle Obama! What a noble cause to be fighting for, and one that has been long overlooked. I know a lot of you are skeptical about government programs, but consider all the great things (the lives that will be positively influenced) that will come about because of good ones like this!
30
I'm glad that our First Lady is starting this initiative. It will give parents,schools, and girls and boys clubs a framework and resource for helping the children in their care and influence.
29
I applaud the First Lady for taking on this initiative. It's important that parents stress the importance of nutrition and fitness as it does begin at home. All schools should have mandatory, school year-round physical education with real physical activities, not cup stacking or checkers.
@ MERRYGRANDMA:
I couldn't agree more! Frankly, I don't believe the government should be providing school lunches for students - it's another example of a welfare program as parents should be taking care of their children 100%!!! However, since school lunches are provided by the government, why haven't they been providing nutritious food from the beginning? Right now, they are providing food no better than what one would get through a drive-thru.
As long as We the People continue to tolerate food company lobbyists putting money in the politicians' pockets, allowing them to create mal-nutritious, chemical-laden, genetically modified food, then the obesity rates will remain unchanged or get worse, in my opinion.
@ MERRYGRANDMA:
I couldn't agree more! Frankly, I don't believe the government should be providing school lunches for students - it's another example of a welfare program as parents should be taking care of their children 100%!!! However, since school lunches are provided by the government, why haven't they been providing nutritious food from the beginning? Right now, they are providing food no better than what one would get through a drive-thru.
As long as We the People continue to tolerate food company lobbyists putting money in the politicians' pockets, allowing them to create mal-nutritious, chemical-laden, genetically modified food, then the obesity rates will remain unchanged or get worse, in my opinion.
28
I'm glad that FLOTUS is stepping up and saying something about this issue. It's funny that the very people who want government out of healthcare are not realizing that government HAS TO be involved in the health and safety of its citizens. People who are overweight have health issues--expensive ones--that cost all of us lots of money. Overweight kids whose parents don't have healthcare grow up to be overweight adults who have high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease (many with little or no insurance to cover the costs). Like it or not, it's all of our responsibilities (including that of the government) to break the cycle and get our population healthy again. Think of the costs (a weaker work force, less efficient working class) that come with obesity. Those costs effect all of us. I hope parents step up to the plate, start cooking healthy meals at home instead of buying fast food, teach their kids healthy eating habits, and encourage their children to play sports/remain active instead of watch tv and play video games. If it takes the first lady to motivate people and show them how important a healthy weight is for their children, then I'm glad she's doing it!
27
I think this is a wonderful idea!!
26
I'm GLAD Michele Obama is stepping in on this initiative! What better role model. She's already done so much planting her veggie garden and look how many people copied that idea. She's young, in great shape herself and enthusiastic about changing the circumstances. It won't happen over night but as a few people posted here - we obviously haven't done enough on our own. Let's give the government a break! I would also like to say that kids need to get more physical activities back at schools. They have so much energy and yet play times, fresh air and recess' are all taken up by test preps, etc. Letting them run off energy more often not only allows for physical activity but may minimize a lot of other things like adhd, etc.
25
I went through a divorce when my son was 3 years old. After that, I became obese and so did he. He and I have both struggled together over the years trying to get in control of our eating and exercise. Everything I did, he tried. (Bless his heart). He even tried counting weight watchers points and journaling when he was 7. Not because I asked him to, but because he saw me doing it.
He's 15 now and finally got his weight under control. I am still overweight, but no longer considered obese (thanks SP!). We always talk about healthy food options and I continue to role model good exercise habits.
Teens don't always have the most healthy habits, but we have learned a lot together and I'm really proud of him.
He's 15 now and finally got his weight under control. I am still overweight, but no longer considered obese (thanks SP!). We always talk about healthy food options and I continue to role model good exercise habits.
Teens don't always have the most healthy habits, but we have learned a lot together and I'm really proud of him.
24
I agree that parents need to be educated first-- they have (or should have) the ultimate control on their children's diets. I'm a big fan of Jamie Oliver's Dinner Revolution which focuses on easy to make, healthy meals in place of the take away so many people eat on a regular basis. I've tried many of the recipes and they're delish!
23
I applaud our First Lady for making this her choice of helping to improve America's health, especially the children. Both she & our President are doing the best they can, with what they have to work with..and AGAINST! Change can never happen..if it isn't given the chance to even take root!! My State is horrible, when it comes to health care coverage, and always has been. So I don't care WHO takes over in fixing it, as long as they do something BETTER, than what it is, now! :)
22
One thing that concerns me about children's nutrition is so very few adults know how to prepare a healthy meal from scratch. Preparing our own meals, rather than relying on packaged foods and restaurants, puts us in control of what goes into our bodies.
As a grandparent, shared time includes cooking healthy meals together. They learn how to cook, learn how to measure, learn what constitutes a healthy meal.
I also refuse to have candies, soft drinks and other unhealthy treats in the house. I stock homemade healthy treats and offer water, herbal teas and fruit juices to our 8 grandkids.
Healthy children are EVERYONE'S responsibility.
As a grandparent, shared time includes cooking healthy meals together. They learn how to cook, learn how to measure, learn what constitutes a healthy meal.
I also refuse to have candies, soft drinks and other unhealthy treats in the house. I stock homemade healthy treats and offer water, herbal teas and fruit juices to our 8 grandkids.
Healthy children are EVERYONE'S responsibility.
21
20
I just blogged on this topic right before I saw this DailySpark post! I am so excited to see SP really jumping in on this issue. I am just beginning to dig into the elements of my own experience as an obese child and I am excited about delving deeper and to "get moving" with this important national discussion. Here's my first blog on the topic: http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=2861048
19
If we want to help decrease childhood obesity, we need to educate the parents first. We know that statistically speaking, an obese child probably has one or both parents who are also overweight. Parents are the first line of defense. Teach children healthy eating habits. Will a child go for the junk food ? Yes. Kids learn from their adults. If the parents are eating junk, then why should they have to eat their veggies ?
Healthy eating should be something that impacts the entire family, not just the kids. As I said, children learn to eat from their parents. If the parent is a healthy eater, in theory, the child should be too. Will they sneak junk ? yes and that's a bad thing. a child should never feel a need to sneak food behind their parents backs. All things in moderation. Teach the child good habits, but allow them to be kids too. Don't expect them to eat like adults. they do have different taste buds than we do.
Personally, while I think it's childhood obesity should be address, let's address the reasons. How about the prevalence of fast food joints ? When I was a kid there was maybe one McDonalds. now, they are everywhere. If it's not McDonalds, it's someone else peddling fast, unhealthy food.
How about the cost of healthy food ? If the parents can't afford to put fresh fruits and veggies on the table, then what ? how about making the cost of healthy food something everyone can afford and not just the affluent.
Let's get physical education back in the schools and yes, that means getting schools more money to fund physical education as well as healthy lunches. Too many schools rely on fast food because the fast food chains provide the schools with money they are desperate for. Get junk food out of the schools.
Get children away from computer and video games. Get them to read more. Get them to go outside and play. get them to socially interact with other children. let them use their imaginations. As my mom used to say to me,"go outside and play". Kids don't play anymore. Not like when I was a kid, back in the Dark Ages. LOL !!!
No, there is no one single cause of childhood obesity. it's a whole bunch of problems that need to be addressed. I appreciate that Michelle Obama is focusing the spotlight on this problem. Hopefully, more people will be interested and will help.
Healthy eating should be something that impacts the entire family, not just the kids. As I said, children learn to eat from their parents. If the parent is a healthy eater, in theory, the child should be too. Will they sneak junk ? yes and that's a bad thing. a child should never feel a need to sneak food behind their parents backs. All things in moderation. Teach the child good habits, but allow them to be kids too. Don't expect them to eat like adults. they do have different taste buds than we do.
Personally, while I think it's childhood obesity should be address, let's address the reasons. How about the prevalence of fast food joints ? When I was a kid there was maybe one McDonalds. now, they are everywhere. If it's not McDonalds, it's someone else peddling fast, unhealthy food.
How about the cost of healthy food ? If the parents can't afford to put fresh fruits and veggies on the table, then what ? how about making the cost of healthy food something everyone can afford and not just the affluent.
Let's get physical education back in the schools and yes, that means getting schools more money to fund physical education as well as healthy lunches. Too many schools rely on fast food because the fast food chains provide the schools with money they are desperate for. Get junk food out of the schools.
Get children away from computer and video games. Get them to read more. Get them to go outside and play. get them to socially interact with other children. let them use their imaginations. As my mom used to say to me,"go outside and play". Kids don't play anymore. Not like when I was a kid, back in the Dark Ages. LOL !!!
No, there is no one single cause of childhood obesity. it's a whole bunch of problems that need to be addressed. I appreciate that Michelle Obama is focusing the spotlight on this problem. Hopefully, more people will be interested and will help.
I agree with . Keep the government out of our healthcare.
What is stopping businesses and governments from offering healthier choices now? What is stopping people from making healthier choices now? It's all about choice-personal choice, not government involvement.
17
I am so excited that Michelle is taking such a proactive stance on this issue! I know that many of us are concerned about the government becoming so involved in our lives, and I respect that greatly. Unfortunately, those of us who do try to take care of our health and the health of our families are a minority--a large one, mind you, but still a minority. There has been a lack of adequate health education in schools for sometime, and it is often not reinforced at home because the parents aren't educated about nutrition or fitness, either. I support greater involvement of our government in our nutritional welfare for that simple reason. Just because we are lucky enough to have learned (or be learning) about how to take care of ourselves doesn't mean that everyone in America is learning, as well, or even are aware that they NEED to learn. Federal government backing of the obesity issue will help to raise that awareness and motivate people to discover how to help themselves.
16
Every first lady since I was born, at least, has had a project or cause. Some of them involved government cooperation (Lady Bird and beautifying the highways comes to mind), some didn't. This, to me, builds on the "President's fitness program", which I remember participating in 7th grade, so it's been around for a while. I applaud the First Lady for taking on this cause. BTW, it's kind of interesting to see people getting worried that Michelle Obama talking about childhood obesity is violating their rights, while having no problem with an employer rewarding workers for being thin. That's just a little weird.
15
The school systems need to bring real P.E back to schools! I was appalled, when walking at a local park one day, when the middle school kids came over (the school used that park for PE) across a field, and most of the kids just sat down on the grass and chatted for the entire 45 minutes! The coach/teacher said nothing... but I guess she was too busy sitting in her chair. That was their PE period. My kids say their schools don't really do anything very active at PE either.
14
Ours is a government of the people, by the people and for the people. WE all partake in the governing of these United States. Who better than the First Spouse and First Parent to lead the battle cry against unhealthy eating and slothful habits? She has a national spotlight and is using it to promote good health. I did not vote for President Obama AND I give three cheers to Mrs. Obama for being the point person for leading the way to healthier living. I'm behind you all the way Michelle!!
13
I am SO happy that our First Lady has chosen to shine a light on the roots of the problem that brought so many of us to SparkPeople: childhood obesity is where it began for SO many of us...
And more: How HAWT is Michelle?!
Ra-ow-ow-wer!
12
I agree Magra, we haven't been doing such a great job on our own...hence the rise in obesity among Americans in general. Having the first lady support such a cause is fantastic. Most first ladies have taken up a cause of some sort such as literacy for example. And since our government is and always has been involved in setting nutrition and physical fitness guidelines (remember when Arnold was the Chairman of the President's Council on physical fitness), this should not come as some sort of government "meddling" to people. People should just chill and accept any help from anywhere if it means fighting childhood obesity.
11
I really like that this plan is going to unite governments, businesses, nonprofits and everyday people!
10
I'm all for doing this ourselves and not having it come from a government program, but clearly we haven't been doing it ourselves. Perhaps our aim should be to work toward not needing a government program to highlight the problem?
9
Since most school lunch programs use government surplus ingredients, the government should only supply healthy foods to these programs. The lunches at the schools in our town give kids their entire days calories, and then they get snacks on top of that.
8
I agree that it's hard to let government get involved with everything but we haven't been doing a good job on our own. The one area I think they should be involved in is food regulation and labeling guidelines. Give us the truth, clean up our food sources- then let us make our own decisions from there.
7
I am amazed at how many people blame their government when they don't like something about life or society and then get mad when the government tries to do something about it because they are "too involved".
everyone needs to step up - families, individuals, corporations, non-profits, and yes - even government.
let's not forget who sets the policies for education - including physical education...and who controls what foods are in our schools. And who has the resources to help those living in poverty live a better, healthier life.
everyone needs to step up - families, individuals, corporations, non-profits, and yes - even government.
let's not forget who sets the policies for education - including physical education...and who controls what foods are in our schools. And who has the resources to help those living in poverty live a better, healthier life.
6
Several years ago I was PTA Pres at my daughter's school. Snacks were my main concern. As a group we decided to prove to parents that "my kids won't eat veges" was not true. It worked. The kids loved the radish roses, cucumber rings, carrot and celery sticks, etc. They were easy to eat, fun to see and colorful. The kids went home and asked for them at home. It was wonderful to watch.
5
I agree with Jenniferboggess. Is there any possible way that we can keep politics, politicians and our government out of our health and fitness initiatives? A lot of us are more than tired of our government attempting to control every aspect of our lives from cradle to grave. Let's help each other and we can do a much better job on our own.
4
I referred my daughter to Sparkteens. She loves it! I referred her not because she needs to lose weight, but to help teach her about nutrition and fitness. She is very excited about the site and has "Spread the Spark" to many of her friends. She was really happy to learn that she could look up her own school's lunch menu under the nutrition tracker! She began to realize that some things that she was choosing for lunch were not as bad as she might have thought, and that there was some food that she should just stay away from. I'm very happy to see her exploring the site on her own and learing something that didn't come from a "boring lecture from Mom". My other daughter is 5, and even she has made comments to me about how we should be adding a fruit or vegetable to lunch (if I haven't already). I was packing my lunch for work the other day and she said "Mommy, I think you should probably grab an apple or carrots to go with that!" Wow! pretty amazing to see the affect that this has on children!
If we could all pass the valuable information on to our own children, think of how many lives THEY could change!
If we could all pass the valuable information on to our own children, think of how many lives THEY could change!
3
It's a good start, but where and what is the long range plan? You can't just talk the talk.
2
Although I am also alarmed at the obesity rates in America and in the world, especially in children, I am not sure that the government is the proper vehicle for this kind of initiative.
1
