Honestly, laws can really only go so far, and I think that that is what a lot of us have been saying here. We can, and probably should, legislate a little, but understand that there will always be loopholes (that fast food joint that is one block further away, or the grocery store that is across the street) and that people will always break the laws, no matter how harsh (see also: illegal narcotics and driving over the speed limit).

From my personal point of view, I think that we could easily try to get the market itself involved, along with a little help from the government, and try to use “marketing” to get kids out and about and exercising, and eating right. Certain companies have done that, but it is few and far between or too hodge podge to really make a dramatic impact. For instance, even if Burger King advertises healthier food, if Carll’s Jr. is out promoting exactly the opposite, then that send a mixed message and people (not just kids, but everyone) will ignore it and go with what they have imprinted into their normal routine, healthy or not.

We need to develop some form on a consistent, positive message, and perhaps get the government involved in the sense that schools should offer more recreational time, longer lulnches, so that kids aren’t having to just choose the “fastest to eat” option. When I was in school, we only had 15 minutes for lunch. Have you ever tried to eat a salad in 15 minutes? Your jaw will hurt…believe me, I have tried. Perhaps they could put more funding into re-fabbing the outdoor parts of the school, offering recess again (which has been taken away from a lot of elementary schools), et cetera.

The problem lies in funding and willingness to participate as a group and ensure that it isn’t a “you must do this” attitude, but something more positive. That is a grand task…no wonder we haven’t achieved it yet.

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