An "Unexpected" Consequence of Michelle Obama's Anti-Obesity Campaign

CNS News describes an unintended consequence of the First Lady's anti-obesity campaign:

A group calling itself the National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance (NAAFA) says that when First Lady Michelle Obama created her anti-obesity "Let’s Move!" initiative, she unfairly singled out fat kids, turning them into targets.

Speaking at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., Monday, NAAFA public relations director Peggy Howell said the First Lady “essentially gave permission to everyone to condemn the children with higher body weights....”

Howell said being targets -- whether intended or not -- causes heavy children “pain and suffering” – even depression and suicide....

She added: “I believe that it was not the intention of the First Lady to cause more pain and suffering for these children, but I also believe that this is one of the consequences of focusing on reducing body size as opposed to improving health. Other consequences include: poor body image, body dissatisfaction, low self-esteem, bullying, disordered eating, depression, lower expectations for future success, and sometimes even suicide....”