Eating habits & lifestyle of children are different from previous generations

IELTS Writing Task 2 with sample answer.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

In many countries today, the eating habits and lifestyle of children are different from those of previous generations. Some people say this has had a negative effect on their health.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Answer:
Changes and differences are common trends in human history. However, children, in many countries, have changed their food habit and way of life compare to previous generation. The item they eat and the way they lead their life are detrimental for both their physical and mental health. I am of the opinion that we have to acknowledge the alarming phenomena right now and take necessary steps to lessen negative impacts as much as possible.
Nowadays, children tend to eat unhygienic foods like fast food, package cookies, pancakes, frozen meals, colas and sodas, ketchup, cereals and so forth. These junk foods are appealing to children due to they do not always understand the consequence of their eating habits. This eating habits cause many complications such as obesity, chronic illness, low self-esteem and even depression. It also affects their school performance and extracurricular activities as well.

Again, ‘lifestyle & addiction’ to modern technology is another problematic change. Children are now busy with computer games, internet surfing, and other online activities.  Many times, they are reluctant to engage in outdoor activities and even they prefer virtual friends over real friend. It has two way impacts on them: physical and mental. It develops eye problems, backache and many other diseases. On the other hand, it also makes hindrance in acquiring interpersonal skills. Children with too much computer time become isolated from rest of the world. This makes them self-centred and they are bereft of several social values. Thus, they become physically and mentally weak.

To recapitulate, when children practice bad habits early in life, they incline to eat that way throughout their life, or tend to reverse those habits later on. On the other hand, teach them the proper lifelong habits in the early, they will have the tools they need for a lifetime of healthy eating habits and ideal lifestyle.