In Pakistan, we face several problems in trying to prevent childhood obesity. The country’s security situation is such that children cannot safely spend time outdoors to perform physical activities, such as riding bicycles, and there is a lack of park facilities. With the advent of technology such as smart phones, tablets and video games, children have also become less interested in outdoor activities. Parents further encourage poor eating habits such as feeding children more red meat — which is high in cholesterol and fat because of the longstanding myth that the consumption of meat is nourishing and wholesome, when, in fact, certain vegetables contain more protein than do meats.
While South Asian dishes make for delectable cuisines, we have to be cautious as many of our foods contain excessive amounts of oil and sugar and tend to be deep-fried, giving rise to obesity and heart disease. The ministry of health must work with the WHO to promote a campaign on healthy eating as the negative impact of obesity on children is manifold, affecting physical, cognitive and emotional development.
Published in The Express Tribune, May 31st, 2014.
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A balance nutritional intake is imperative at all stage of life to stay happy:)