No matter how we might try to sugarcoat it, childhood obesity is unhealthy. It's an epidemic, and you need only look around to see how dangerous it is becoming. People are looking at the future of the children and are terrified. You don't have the power to solve this problem yourself. But if you have a child, stop a moment to consider his or her future.

Clearly, the effects of childhood obesity are fatal. A child who is obese is at risk for many health problems and diseases: Diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol are just a few possibilities.

Then there are the negative social effects of childhood obesity. It's a well-known fact that children can be quite cruel to each other. You can bet that an overweight child is probably going to be picked on and will be the target of vicious pranks.

It's a miserable existence for a child who is constantly made fun of and never accepted. They suffer every single day when no one invites them to birthday parties. No one asks them out to the school dance ("You're too fat!"). They certainly never get picked for the sports teams.

There may be hope. As more people realize the effects of childhood obesity, maybe we'll be able to work together to make a change for the better. But today, you can start with your own child when it's time for dinner. Encourage good eating habits: Teach your child the difference between the food that's good for them and the food that's unhealthy, and you will reduce or even put a stop to childhood obesity. It is every parent's responsibility to teach their child the right and wrong way to do things. Your child deserves a better quality of life, and he or she depends on you to provide it and avoid childhood obesity. It's up to you. Don't abandon your child to a life full of sickness and sorrow. You can help put a stop to the childhood obesity epidemic by starting with your own child.