Even though Spaniards continue to live healthier lives than Americans, the times are changing. As a result of the economy, more mothers have to get a job to support their families, leaving less time to prepare meals. In addition, the poor economy and high unemployment (about 26%) encourages Spaniards to eat inexpensive, less nutritious food. Fast food chains such as McDonald's and Burger King are penetrating the centers of Spanish cities nation-wide. Finally, the spread of technology (cell phones, television, video games, wifi) are causing children to be less active... Does this sound familiar?
An estimated 25% of Spanish children between the ages 3-5 are overweight or obese. You don't have to be a nutritionist or a genius to imagine how many economic and social problems this will cause in the future (think health care.) This figure and all others related to increasing rates of obesity can be attributed to the most basic changes of health and wellness; diet and exercise.
- Spanish children are living a more sedentary lifestyle.
- Spanish children are abandoning their healthy, Mediterranean diet for fast food.
This topic clearly demonstrates some of the negative effects of economic crisis and globalization, specifically the US influence in particular. American culture continues to infiltrate foreign countries, both positive and negative. It is a shame that such a beautiful culture is being diluted by macro fast food chains amongst other culprits. If things were perfect, foreigners would only accept the benefits of American culture and forget the rest... Even better they would positively influence American culture. Below are some short articles that explain the situation, but the best information can only be found in Spanish:
http://www.spainreview.net/index.php/2012/05/17/25-of-spanish-children-between-3-and-5-year-old-are-overweight/
http://news-spain.euroresidentes.com/2011/02/child-obesity-in-spain.html
http://www.elmundo.es/elmundo/2012/11/13/madrid/1352798153.html (Spanish)
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