Childhood obesity is an epidemic that is sweeping the United States.  It is currently estimated that one in every five children is overweight, a number that has more than doubled in the past two decades.  Children who suffer from obesity often struggle with low self-esteem, poor body image, and may even be diagnosed as clinically depressed.  Children who are overweight may also suffer from diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.

I became passionate about the issue of childhood obesity after spending two semesters in a bioorganic chemistry laboratory researching the synthesis of unnatural sugars for the purpose of fighting obesity.  Through my involvement in this research, I became aware of just how pressing the issue of childhood obesity is to the well-being of our country.  Our children are our future, and I therefore believe it is imperative that we take action against the current trend.

As a community, Auburn can have a major impact in the fight against childhood obesity.  By teaching our children healthy eating habits and encouraging physical activity, we can start a new trend in today’s youth.