Rates of overweight youths have tripled in the past 20 years in America. Today it is estimated that over twenty percent of American youth are overweight and have trouble with healthy weight loss programs. This rising epidemic has stirred a great deal of new investigations. The problems are mainly seen in the interpersonal, social and psychological effects of serious weight gain or obesity (being 100# or more over ideal body weight) on youth. Healthy choices take commitment and support from family and friends.

Diabetes, hypertension and other obesity-related chronic diseases are more common in youngsters. Indulgent lifestyles, poor nutritional habits and inactivity are reported to contribute to the increase of weight or obesity in youth.

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