Over the last 30 years, child obesity has doubled and tripled for adolescents. The prevalence of this epidemic is growing at an alarming rate in the United States with multi-generational consequences.
Studies conclusively prove eating breakfast has positive effects on cognitive performance, academic achievements, quality of life, well-being and morbidity risk factors.
In 2010, the Hunger-Free Kids Act was implemented in the United States. The act created stricter guidelines for well-balanced meals that public schools provide. Using the School Breakfast Program is one way to address this growing epidemic; however, instead of only providing free breakfast for low-income families, schools would provide breakfast free for all students. Children who eat a well-balanced breakfast are more likely to: eat healthier throughout the day, concentrate better, do better in school, and are happier.
We are responsible for advocating for our vulnerable youth’s well-being. Implementing this change to the School Breakfast Program would require society to be open-minded when locating sources for funding the program. Now is the time to make changes for America’s youth.
Mackenzie Pranger, Eagle Mountain
