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             Indeed, childhood obesity can have both physical and emotional consequences. As a result it remains as one of the most pressing issues confronting today's youth. Now that we understand more about the problem of obesity in children let us discuss the causes of obesity in children.

             The causes of obesity .

             There are several reasons why obesity exists in children. These reasons include eating habits, lack of exercise, food centered activities and family history. For the purpose of this discussion we will focus on the two main issues associated with childhood obesity which are bad eating habits and lack of exercise. Over the next few paragraphs we will further explore these issues and how they contribute to childhood obesity. The discussion will also focus on ways to prevent childhood obesity as it relates to these problems. .

             Eating Habits.

             Eating habits are a major cause of childhood obesity. The article asserts that diets with high fat intakes have been correlated with childhood obesity (Parizkova & Hills,; Hoot & Lynn-Garbe). In addition the article reports that many children eat a great deal of foods that are high in fat. The authors assert that.

             A recent survey (Troiano, Briefel, Carroll, & Bialostosky, 2000) of children in the United Statesfound that only 1 in 4 children and adolescents met U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommendations for fat intake. As a result, "inadequate amounts of fresh fruits, vegetables, and complex carbohydrates, but excessive amounts of fats, are consumed" (Smith, 1999, p. 84). A review of current food consumption practices in school settings suggests that many schools promote unhealthful eating habits. Such detrimental practices include: school meals high in fat, food-centered celebrations and activities, increased availability of a la carte food and beverage options and vending machines, rewarding children with food, and teaching staff modeling unhealthy dietary habits (e.