Is Fast Food The New Tobacco?

 

I believe that people should be responsible for their well-being. When people are responsible for themselves, they are more likely to be more mindful of their actions. This can lead to people eating better, and regular exercise. By encouraging personal responsibility we can lead to a culture of accountability, where people prioritize their health and are encouraged to find healthier options, rather than relying on the government to find solutions for their problems.

In the article “What You Eat Is Your Business” Radley Balko talks about how people should be responsible for what they eat. According to Balko “Instead of manipulating or intervening in the array of food options available to American consumers, our government ought to be working to foster a sense of responsibility in and ownership of our own health and well-being." This shows that we should prioritize our well-being and take action to manage our diets and lifestyles.

In the article “Don't Blame the Eater”, David Zinczenko talks about how the fast food industry helps create an environment where unhealthy eating is normal. When the author talks about Type 2 diabetes he says “Only about 5 percent of childhood cases were obesity-related, or Type 2, diabetes. Today, according to the National Institutes of Health, Type 2 diabetes 2 accounts for at least 30 percent of all new childhood cases of diabetes in this country.” He also speaks about the influence of marketing and the lack of accessibility that also impact the decisions of people when making their eating habits.  Fast-food chains invest in advertising aimed at people, creating a connection between their brands and fun or happiness. Although these statements do hold truth, it comes down to what people are choosing to eat. As fast food is being advertised people do have the ability to say no to what is being advised. 

In the YouTube video, “First Lady Michelle Obama Addresses the 101st NAACP Convention”, Michelle Obama talks about childhood obesity and the importance of healthy choices for future generations. She says “If you're obese there's a 40% chance that your kids will be obese as well and if both you and the child are the parent or obese that number jumps to 80%” This shows how our personal decisions affect those around us.

People think that the government should be involved with your health and well-being. Many lawmakers believe that without government laws, people will not take control of their well-being. However, this view ignores the hardships people face, such as financial problems, cultural influences, and the ability to get better resources. Instead of laws being put in place, the government can offer community food drives.

In conclusion, we should hope for a future where healthy eating becomes normal. A world where fast-food chains actively promote nutritious options and display nutritional information on all menu items. This shift could empower consumers to make better choices, reducing the rates of childhood obesity and related health issues. By making a culture that prioritizes health, we can help future generations lead healthier lives. The goal is not to eliminate fast food but to create an environment where it can coexist with more nutritious choices.