Is Childhood Obesity a US National Security Issue?
Yes it is according to new study, “Still too Fat to Fight”. The report claims 25% of young adults are too overweight to get into the military and emphasizes the key role that junk food sold by schools (400 billion calories per year) plays in the problem.
There is little doubt that we need change the environment at schools and homes to promote better eating habits. Some interesting work from a cognitive design standpoint is the application of behavioral economics to lunchroom design.
We also need to explicitly teach kids of all ages impulse control and behavior change techniques so they can master the environment. This is very different than teaching them about nutrition and health. It involves techniques that apply to health but all other self control challenges as well. I’m am currently working with a client on Behavior Change 101 for Kids. I’m hopeful they will let me share the results with readers. Drop me an email – mark.k.clare@gmail.com if you or your organization have an interest.
