Retired Generals and Admirals Say Junk Food at Schools Threatens U.S. Security
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Schools should be doing a better job of feeding America’s youth in order to cut down on their growing rates of obesity, according to a coalition of retired military commanders. Mission: Readiness, a non-profit formed by 130 retired generals, admirals and other senior military leaders, wants to improve the health of young people, and thus the nation’s security. Its new report (Too Fat to Fight) claims 27% of 17-24 year olds are too overweight to serve in the military, considerably reducing the pool of available soldiers, sailors and other personnel to defend the United States.
Because dietary habits start young, schools can play a major role in reversing obesity rates. The organization has called on Congress to adopt legislation that will assist educators and administrators to reduce high-calorie, low-nutrition foods available at schools, increase access to healthier school meals and do more to teach children and their parents about healthier eating habits.
Data provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show the number of states with 40% or more of young adults considered to be overweight has risen from one state to 39 states since 1995.
-Noel Brinkerhoff
(Mission: Readiness) (pdf)
Too Fat to Fight (Mission: Readiness) (pdf)
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