Childhood Obesity: Take a Leaf Out of France’s Strategy

France appears to have made huge strides in controlling childhood obesity, making it the first EU nation to witness noteworthy success in this area. The country's strategy of incorporating healthy diet programs and keeping schools free of vending machines has finally paid off.

According to WHO estimates, about 400 million people are grappling obesity. Among this mammoth figure are 20 million children less than five years.

Two separate studies conducted by researchers have lent credibility to this welcome development, amid growing concerns of obesity being linked to Type 2 diabetes, heart disease and cancer.

Indeed, it is the three pronged initiative of government policies, increasing awareness of obesity and children themselves reducing their food consumption that has reflected in these pleasing figures, researchers said.

However, one major concern loomed large amid the overall big picture, poorer children were three times more likely to be obese, researchers said.

The French initiative is an eye opener about the benefits of government involvement in modifying policies to suit children, which has significantly impacted the child obesity rates.

Many western governments have now begun to promote healthier diet and lifestyle in a bid to stave off obesity and weight problems.

Source: Medindia
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