The document discusses childhood obesity in America, highlighting that over 23 million children are overweight or obese, which contributes to health issues like hypertension and type 2 diabetes. It attributes the rise in obesity to factors such as busy family lifestyles, increased portion sizes, reduced recess, and excessive screen time, as well as aggressive marketing by food companies targeting children. The narrative includes a superhero game concept aimed at educating kids about nutrition, where different food groups have varying energy benefits and effects.

1. The Anti-Junk Food Superhero Game By Mary Janisch Jeremy Snook COM 547 Spring 2009

2. Childhood obesity is an epidemic

3. More than 23 million American kids are overweight or obese That’s 1/3 of the youth population!

4. Obesity rate has doubled for kids and tripled for teenagers since 1980.

5. Fat Kids = Sick Kids Overweight kids are getting “adult” diseases like hypertension and Type 2 diabetes .

6. Why Are Kids Getting So Fat? Busy families turning to calorie-laden convenience foods Portion sizes increased Recess times reduced More “screen time” and less physical activity

7. Companies spend $10 billion a year on food marketing to children

8. To teach good eating habits, get ‘em while they’re young…

9. … and where they’re at: playing videogames 97% of kids play videogames

14. It’s like… LEGO Star Wars / LEGO Batman The Incredibles Spy Kids

16. Meet the Johnsons Drew, 9 years old, 4 th grade, AKA Zip Maura, 10 years old, 5 th grade, AKA Zap Students at Springfield Elementary School

17. And is this corner…

18. Fight monsters, use energy Eat food to replenish energy Save your school!

19. All Food Gives Energy, But Not Equally Food Group Benefit Negative Effect Grains Provides up to 75% energy, normal refill (none) Vegetables Provides up to 100% energy; fastest refill (none) Fruits Provides up to 100% energy; fastest refill (none) Milk Provides up to 90% energy; faster refill (none) Meat & Beans Provides up to 110% energy; slow refill (none) Junk Food Provides up to 125% energy; faster refill Slow-down after short period; end-game appearance Sugary Drinks Provides up to 150% energy; fastest refill Slow-down after short period; end-game appearance