In a bold article called Childhood Obesity: A New Pandemic of the New Millennium, published in the November 2000 issue of Pediatrics, the authors chronicle how the obesity problem has become so severe that the drastic measure of gastric bypass surgery is emerging as an option for children. While this may be the best option for a few children, the surgery poses many risks and unanswered questions.
Far better for us to tackle the epidemic head on, with increased physical activity (we are raising the most sedentary generation in history) and with healthy food – starting at home and in the schools. And when eating out, french fries and potato chips have become staples of kids meals from fast food joints to fine restaurants.
We owe it to our kids to provide delicious, nutritious alternatives.