WT2 - Overweight Children

In many countries, children are becoming overweight and unhealthy. Some people think that the government should have the responsibility. What extent do you agree or disagree?

In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards overweight children worldwide. Although some might suggest that the government should take the account of this trend, the suggestion is groundless and should not be considered.

Unhealthy eating habits and lifestyles of children are one of the main reasons leading to this phenomenon. First, since the convenience and popularity of fast food, coming with the development of many branches, such as McDonald’s and KFC, children are susceptible to approach this kind of food in daily life. In fact, fast food has calorie 4 times higher than other kind of food, which means the more fast food children eat, the fatter they are. Second, kids and teenagers have been exercises and attending mental activities than ever before due to the attraction of the Internet that keeps them always pay attention on their device, including computers and mobile phones. This leads to the less energy children consume everyday.

Another reason is that parents have more opportunities to look after and affect their children’s behaviors than the government. In fact, the government cannot propose a policy to force children not to eat harmful or to do more exercise, while parents can. For example, parents could make rule to require their kids not to eat candy if they want to go picnic at the weekend, which easily and directly cut the sugar children consume. Moreover, children is the responsibility of parents. The government has supported about educational and medical fee, while other issues belongs to parents.

In conclusion, daily lifestyle of children and influence of parents are two main elements having substantial impacts on children’s weight. Identifying true reasons behind is key to find the solution.