If you eat more calories that you need then those calories aren't used the body stores it as fat. If you eat loads of extra calories, like a big chocolate bar, you should try and do some exercise to wear off that energy before it turns to fat.  How does it affect your health? Being obese can be very dangerous to your health and doctors say that if you're overweight as a child you're likely to be overweight as an adult. It's linked to heart disease, cancer, strokes, high blood pressure and weak bones. It can also lead to emotional problems like being bullied and feeling down  What's being done about the problem? Experts say you should enjoy your food but be careful about what you eat and remember to keep active. The government is trying to work out how to let you know what's in your food. They may decide that food like burgers and chips should be served up with a warning that you should balance your meal with exercise - just like cigarettes have health warnings on them. Popstars and sport stars may be banned from advertising fast food and high fat, high sugar snacks and drinks. And some vending machines in schools have already been emptied and replaced with healthier options. Cooking lessons could also be included in your day, to help you learn how to prepare food that's good for you. |
