This Child Health Day, and on every subsequent day, my Administration is devoted to safeguarding the health and welfare of every American child. We aim to empower our youngest citizens to pursue long, fulfilling lives, ensuring that the spirit of America remains vibrant and thriving for future generations.
In recent years, we have witnessed a troubling and inexplicable increase in chronic health issues affecting American children. We have observed significant rises in autism, autoimmune diseases, obesity, diabetes, severe allergies, and mental health struggles among our youth.
The Make America Healthy Again Commission, initiated by my Administration, is at the forefront of investigating these alarming trends and proposing effective responses. Our initial focus is on minimizing chemical exposure and reducing the prevalence of highly processed foods that clutter children’s diets, and instead, embracing nourishing, natural foods that promote health. Additionally, we are reintroducing physical activity in schools to ensure that exercise becomes an invigorating element of every child’s daily routine; the Presidential Fitness Test has been reinstated.
This commission is also evaluating the widespread use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, and weight-loss medications. For too long, we have seen a tendency to resort to medication as the primary solution to every challenge, leading to dependency and often worsening the situation for our young people. My Administration is dedicated to pursuing better alternatives—promoting lasting strategies such as exercise, proper nutrition, and community connections that foster strong, healthy minds and bodies.
Earlier this year, I proudly signed into law the TAKE IT DOWN Act—a groundbreaking legislation spearheaded by First Lady Melania Trump. Thanks to her relentless advocacy, this law offers essential protections for American children against digital exploitation, including the misuse of deepfake technology, and enhances safeguards for their online privacy and mental well-being. Melania’s commitment to this crucial issue emphasizes that protecting our children in the digital realm is just as critical as ensuring their physical health.
Today, the First Lady and I stand alongside our fellow Americans to reinforce our commitment to the health and well-being of our youngest citizens. For nearly 250 years, our Nation has thrived thanks to the vision and resilience of younger generations—and under my guidance, American children will again grow, flourish, and lead us toward a brighter, healthier future.
