EPIDEMIC
Overweight in children and adults has
reached epidemic proportions and is one of North Carolina's most pressing health
issues. Many societal trends such as longer workdays, reduced leisure time,
increased portion sizes and consumption of food outside home, increased time
spent watching television and reduced time spent in physical activity are contributing
to the epidemic of overweight and obesity.
While there are many contributing
factors to this epidemic, one reason is too many meals are eaten away from home.
Many families opt for fast food too often. Fast food meals frequently consist
of too many calories, too much fat and too much sugar. While the ultimate goal
is to help families prepare and eat more meals at home, fast food has become
part of the American culture. Families are busier than ever. Grabbing fast food
on the way home from work or school has become routine for many families…But
what about good nutrition? Families need skills to navigate the vast array of
menu items at fast food restaurants in order to be able to choose healthier
options such as smaller portions.
Portion
Distortion
Fast
Food Hamburger
1954 (2.8 oz 202
calories) Today (4.3 oz 310 calories)
Fast
Food Fries
1955
(2.4 oz 210 calories) Today
(7 oz 610 calories)
Fast
Food Soft Drink
Large
(400 calories)
Small (150
Calories)
|
