[juliap]

I like an occasional piece of Popeye's spicy chicken but it is not regular fare in my home, nor is pizza or any other fast food. The only excuse I can think of for feeding it to company is a kids' sleep-over party.

You can't advertise cigarettes on television because of health concerns, but junk food/fast food gets a green light. Kids are growing up thinking it is what you are supposed to eat.

A poor diet creates poor health. That obesity leads to myriad health problems is no secret. The two most discussed being diabetes and heart disease. Surely by now teens know it contributes to skin problems because of the grease content.

Obesity is inexcusable and parents who allow their children to become obese are guilty of child abuse, IMHO. It doesn't happen overnight and it is avoidable. Children should not be allowed to dictate their menu. They should be required to eat healthy foods even when they complain about it.

The news is full of bad press regarding fast food, so why do parents keep feeding it to their kids along with "homemade" fast foods?

Sorry folks, but this is a real sore subject with me.