San Francisco Chronicle - Letters to Insight

San Francisco Chronicle

Letters To Insight

October 17, 2010

By Dr. Jessica Schumer

As a practicing pediatrician at San Francisco General Hospital, I have unfortunately witnessed the growing trend of childhood obesity.

However, my experience at S.F. General is not unique. Around this country, it's not uncommon that in a waiting room of 100 children, 30 will be obese. One-third of the boys and closer to one-half of the girls will develop diabetes. Leaving parents to navigate the treacherous tides ("What about parent's right to decide?" Letters, Insight, Oct. 10) against the giant fast-food corporations will probably lead to a continued increase in obesity and diabetes.

The proposed ordinance in San Francisco creates minimum nutrition standards for meals sold with toys. With this ordinance, we have a chance to come together across public and private sectors to advocate for those families most susceptible to the onslaught of unhealthy fare. More important, it will demonstrate our commitment to support and sustain the good eating habits of our children. The studies have consistently supported the benefits of diets high in fiber, fruits and vegetables, and low in bad fats, salts and sugars. It's time to start taking action. Our children's lives depend on it.

Dr. Jessica Schumer, San Francisco

Click here to read the letter in the San Francisco Chronicle Online.

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