N. Dakota Mom Handing Out 'Obesity Letters' Instead Of Candy This Halloween: 'I Just Want To Send A Message To Parents'
With the rise of obesity in children, one North Dakota woman plans to hand out something other than candy this Halloween — “obesity letters."
The woman who is unidentified at this time hopes that her letters will urge parents to take a more active role in managing their children's weight.
"I just want to send a message to the parents of kids that are really overweight... I think it's just really irresponsible of parents to send them out looking for free candy just 'cause all the other kids are doing it," the woman said in a morning radio interview with Y-24, reports Kare 11 News.
In the past 30 years, childhood obesity has doubled in children and tripled in adolescents, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. When children or adolescents are obese, they are more likely to develop other health problems in their adult life, such as cardiovascular disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes.
Meanwhile, some might believe that fat shaming could actually lead to weight gain. A study completed every two years from 2006 to 2010 found that overweight adults who experienced weight discrimination were more likely to become obese by the next time that they were weighed.
Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, and Indiana are some of the top states for obesity among high school children, with percentages ranging from 15 to 19 percent. Colorado, Idaho, Montana, and Utah have the lowest percentages.
North Dakota's obesity rate is in the middle, with an obesity rate of 11 percent among high school students. While the unnamed woman from North Dakota might believe that she is doing a service, she may actually be doing more harm than good.
The letter says:
Happy Halloween and Happy Holidays Neighbor!
You are probably wondering why your child has this note; have you ever heard the saying, “It takes a village to raise a child”? I am disappointed in “the vilage” (sic) of Fargo, Moorhead, West Fargo.
Your child is, in my opinion, moderately obese and should not be consuming sugar and treats to the extent of some children this Halloween season.
My hope is that you will step up as a parent and ration candy this Halloween and not allow your child to continue these unhealthy eating habits.
Thank You.