Answer to Question 1
In addition to the physical consequences, childhood obesity brings a host of emotional and social problems. Because people frequently judge others on appearance more than on character, overweight and obese children are often victims of prejudice and bullying. Many suffer discrimination by adults and rejection by their peers. They may have poor self-images, a sense of failure, and a passive approach to life. Television shows, which are a major influence in children's lives, often portray the fat person as the bumbling misfit. Overweight children may come to accept this negative stereotype in themselves and in others, which can lead to additional emotional and social problems. Researchers investigating children's reactions to various body types find that both normal-weight and underweight children respond unfavorably to overweight bodies.
Answer to Question 2
Research on hyperactivity has focused on several nutritional factors as possible causes or treatments. Parents often blame sugar. They mistakenly believe that simply eliminating candy and other sweet treats will solve the problem. This dietary change will not solve the problem, however, and studies have consistently found no convincing evidence that sugar causes hyperactivity or worsens behavior. Food additives have also been blamed for hyperactivity and other behavior problems in children, but scientific evidence to substantiate the connection has been elusive. Limited research suggests that food additives such as artificial colors or sodium benzoate preservative (or both) may exacerbate hyperactive symptoms such as inattention and impulsivity in some children. Additional studies are needed to confirm the findings and to determine which additives might be responsible for specific negative behaviors. A Food and Drug Administration (FDA) review determined that evidence linking color additives to hyperactivity is lacking. The FDA did not rule out the possibility that some food additives, including food colorings, may aggravate hyperactivity and other behavioral problems in some susceptible children.
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