How should we address the problem of obesity in children?

Strict dietary supervision by parents would be an excellent first step. But one step we DON’T need is government intervention.

Last week, the chairwoman of the FTC, Deborah Majoras, announced that the agency would not place limits on junk food advertising that targets children. And that’s a good step. I realize that the enormous amount of junk food advertising aimed at kids doesn’t make life any easier for parents, but obesity isn’t caused by advertisements, it’s caused by poor dietary choices.

Meanwhile, Ms. Majoras also announced that the FTC will host a summer “workshop” to help advertisers and food manufacturers develop guidelines to promote healthy eating habits.

Hmmm. That sounds suspiciously like a taxpayer-funded, feel-good dog and pony show to me. When the workshop is finished, the executives at soda pop and candy bar companies will be able to say they’ve been “partnering” with the FTC to help kids conquer obesity.

And then just watch those waistlines shrink away!

To Your Good Health,

Jenny Thompson
Health Sciences Institute

Sources:

“U.S. Won’t Ban Junk-Food Ads for Kids: Official” Reuters Health, 3/14/05, reutershealth.com