Obesity occurs from caloric imbalance and lack of physical activity, affected by various behavioral, genetic and environmental factors. Obesity is entirely preventable through improved nutrition and increased physical activity, two things that can be done in schools. Michelle Obama's "Let's Move" initiative to reduce childhood obesity rates has spurred action by federal administrations. In June 2013, the USDA banned the sale of snack foods like candy, cookies and other sugary foods as well as sugary sports drinks and sodas. The new rules, under the Healthier, Hunger-Free Kids Act, passed in 2010, placing federal regulations to set nutritional standards for all food and beverages sold in schools.
According to the National PTA, research has shown that students who eat a healthy diet perform better in school. If students are underfed or overfed with the wrong kind of foods, cognitive functions are affected. A study on children and academic, social and behavioral problems, published in the Journal of School Health, examined the relationship between overweight children and educational outcomes. Looking at 13,680 children in the third grade, children were individually administered math and reading assessments. Teachers then reported how often the children demonstrated certain behaviors. The results found that in addition to lower test scores, overweight children also suffered from lower self-control and self-esteem. These findings suggest that how childhood obesity is dealt with now may have implications for the future psychological health of children.
Risk factors for cardiovascular disease can be detected early in the life of overweight or obese children. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that, between the ages of 5 and 17, 70 percent of obese youth had at least one indicator for cardiovascular disease. Overweight students are also prone to developing pre-diabetes, bone and joint problems and sleep apnea. Beyond the physical effects, these students also suffer social and psychologically from problems like low self-esteem.
Students model the behaviors of authority figures in their lives, which means students are influenced by both their families and teachers. Obese children are more likely to be obese adults and at risk for obesity-related health problems. Studies have even shown that children with weight problems as early as 2 years old were more likely to be obese adults. Educating students through health and wellness programs are just as important as providing healthy options and limiting unhealthy options. Taking out junk food and sodas will only prevent children from consuming these products during the school day, but it's the education on healthy habits that will lead to healthier choices outside of and beyond school. If banning junk food and increasing physical activity in schools can lead to lower obesity rates now, there will be fewer adults with obesity and obesity-related diseases.