Fighting Childhood Obesity: A Call for Effective Policies on Unhealthy Food Marketin

Authors

  • Travis Satnarine

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.56570/jimgs.v2i1.70

Keywords:

Food marketing, Unhealthy foods, Policy solutions, Evidence-based interventions, Nutritional education, Physical activity, Sedentary behavior, Passive activities, Fast food, Advertisements

Abstract

Childhood obesity is a significant public health concern with long-term health consequences for children. Despite various efforts to promote healthy lifestyles, statistics continue to indicate upward trends for overweight youths. Companies marketing unhealthy foods to children are contributing to this problem, making it necessary to implement mandatory guidelines and policy solutions. Evidence-based interventions, including education about nutrition and physical activity, are effective in reducing the prevalence of childhood obesity. Other countries have implemented policies to regulate unhealthy food marketing to children, which can serve as models for the US. The amount of money spent on advertising sugary drinks and unhealthy foods to children is staggering, and advertising restrictions could reduce childhood obesity rates. Effective policy solutions are necessary to address the issue and promote healthy lifestyles for our children.

References

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Obesity Action Coalition. (2023). Food Marketing to Children: A Wolf in Sheep's Clothing? Retrieved April 22, 2023, from https://www.obesityaction.org/resources/food-marketing-to-children-a-wolf-in-sheeps-clothing/

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Published

2023-05-04

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Section

Articles

How to Cite

1.
Satnarine T. Fighting Childhood Obesity: A Call for Effective Policies on Unhealthy Food Marketin. Journal For International Medical Graduates. 2023;2(1). doi:10.56570/jimgs.v2i1.70