How much has the number of American children considered overweight increased over the past 20 years?

The increase in the number of American children considered overweight over the past 20 years is often cited as being more than 100 percent, reflecting a significant and concerning trend in childhood obesity. This sharp rise is attributable to a combination of factors, including changes in dietary patterns, increased consumption of processed foods high in sugar and fat, and a decrease in physical activity levels among children.

The statistics concerning childhood obesity highlight that the prevalence has doubled or more, indicating a widespread public health issue that has garnered attention from healthcare professionals and policymakers alike. By understanding this dramatic increase, holistic nutritionists can better appreciate the importance of addressing nutritional habits and lifestyle changes early in life to combat obesity and promote better health outcomes for children.

The other options suggest increases that underestimate the severity of the trend and do not align with the documented statistics. A more accurate understanding of this increase is crucial for effective interventions in nutrition and health education for children and families.