December 16, 2012

Plea to First Lady Michelle Obama

Dear First Lady Michelle,

congratulations on the Obama2012 campaign success and for the opportunity to direct our nation for 4 more years.

Thank you for leading our nation’s push to reverse the childhood obesity epidemic with your Let’s Move campaign.

As a pediatrician and an expert in infant and child nutrition, I write this plea to you.

Can we rename the Let’s Move campaign? We would suggest a new name like, Let’s Not Drink Sugar. The science is clear on the BEST way to reverse the childhood obesity epidemic. We need to consume less sugar, particularly in the drinks we imbibe.

This move would refocus the nation on the most effective way to accomplish the stated mission. For those of us who need a refresher, here is the original announcement in 2010...... “The ‘Let’s Move’ campaign will focus on reaching a national goal of solving the childhood obesity challenge within a generation so that children born today will reach adulthood at a healthy weight."

Again, we appreciate everything you have already done to draw attention to this crucial topic. Perhaps these Atlanta 5th graders say it best, https://vimeo.com/44083970

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Kevin Strong, MD pediatrician and Founder of Dunk the Junk 501(c)3