“The importance of nutritional education in

the fight against childhood obesity”

Obesity is a growing concern worldwide.*Since 1975 it has tripled throughout the

world and children are not an exception. In 2016 there were more tan 380 million
children and teenagers ( under 19 ) who were overweight or obese.

Nutritional education is a crucial tool to solve this issue, the lack of knowledge about
healthy eating can lead to poor dietary habits from an early age which could
contribute to childood obesity. To face this challenge, it is essential to implement
effective educational programs in schools.

These programs should provide infomation about the importance of a balanced diet,
rich in fruits and vegetables, promoting water consumption, explain the effect of
processed foods and how to avoid it, and also teach children to read nutritional
labels.

Furthermmore, nutritional education should not be limited only to children; families

ought to be involved too. Parents have to model their eating behaviours by limiting
sugary drinks and candies, one of the main causes of obesity in children.

In summary, early and effective nutritional education in schools is a powerful tool to

fight against childhood obesity. By teaching children and their families about how to
have a balanced diet and having healthier habits we can reduce obesity worldwide.

* Source:
WHO (World Health Organization)