Theory connecting poor children and obesity is refuted

It used to be that people thought poorer children weren't getting enough healthy food in their diets to stay at a proper weight. Instead of getting vegetables and other necessary elements, they were relying on junk food. They also thought lack of money meant fewer meals. This can slow a metabolism causing obesity.

However, new research indicates that this theory is dead in the water. Authorities are now calling for more studies to pinpoint why these kids are struggling with weight. After all, upwards of 40 percent of obese 10-17 year-olds are from low-income families.

Over a thousand children were analyzed from previous data. Their "food security" was taken into account. That's a way to describe dietary needs for a healthy lifestyle. Mothers were polled on the serving size of meals, and whether or not her kids had skipped eating due to unavailability. Of the 1,031 children, half were overweight -- but only 8 percent weren't getting enough at mealtime. Government policy probably won't be influenced by this research until more conclusive data reveals solid connections between low-income households and child obesity.