assertion “U.S. Obesity Epidemic Continues to Grow”

This assertion journal is in response to Sarah Cottrell-Cumber” response to the Washington Post’s article “U.S. Obesity Epidemic Continues to Grow” from July 17, 2008. http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/07/17/AR2008071701462.html

I completely agree with Sarah CC about the rise in obesity and the need to educate people, but I don’t think name calling and rude remarks about a person size will help bring about a solution. Many families today are constantly on the go and fast food is the quickest way to get dinner, and it is cheaper then buying meats and vegetables at the store. So while children should get more information about healthy foods, all expectations of a better future can’t be placed on their shoulders, parents need to be educated also. While children no longer spend the afternoon outside playing basketball or tag because they are inside playing Rock Band or Guitar Hero can’t be blamed on them alone. I mean my mom used to lock me outside during summer, to get fresh air and exercise. If kids are put outside with something to do, most likely they will find a way to amuse themselves. I also understand that Americans do not see where this kind of behavior will lead, and that the future gets grimmer with each day, but I don’t believe calling people fat, and saying they look like a blimp will get any results. I mean think how hard it is for an overweight person to go to the gym. When they walk in they will be noticed because of their weight. The machines at the gym also might not be adequate for their needs. The only way to prevent an overweight future is to begin with kids and their parents, educating them in what kind of food is healthy, and that it can be delicious. Without a little positive reinforcement nothing is going to get done, and those who are overweight will never desire to change their habits, because their journey to a healthy life is going to be filled with the people who mock them because of their weight, even when they are trying to get healthier.