A big FAT problem
The dangers of children relying on junk food despite their low nutritional value, have caused major concerns on their health.
THE expression “junk food” tends to bring to mind additive-coated snacks contained in brightly coloured packaging, sweets and cakes of numerous variety and takeaway meals from fast food chains.
In other words, the stuff of many a child’s fancy.
The dangers of children relying on junk food despite their low nutritional value, have caused major concerns on their health.
THE expression “junk food” tends to bring to mind additive-coated snacks contained in brightly coloured packaging, sweets and cakes of numerous variety and takeaway meals from fast food chains.
In other words, the stuff of many a child’s fancy.
Weighty issue
Governments worlwide are bracing themselves for an “obesity epidemic” soon. This condition can potentially lead to a range of health problems such as heart disease, diabetes and even premature death.
Worryingly, there has been a rise in cases of obesity among children, and many studies indicate a link between the consumption of junk food to obesity in children.
Shifting focus
Nutrition Society of Malaysia president Dr Tee E Siong says that instead of jumping the gun on condemning junk food, parents might want to focus on the ingredients involved in such foods.
“Local hawker fare, such as nasi lemak, roti cannai and so on can be just as unhealthy as what’s sold in fast food chains.”
“What’s best is to teach them on healthy eating habits from young.”
According to Dr Tee, children as young as one can benefit from nutrition education.
“You can get your children to talk about food and you need to lead by example.
If you get them actively involved, then it’s easier for them to understand the importance of a balanced diet.”
He also warns against parents who monitor their child’s eating habits too much, as that might reap adverse results.
“Your child might end up being repulsed with everything and develop unhealthy eating habits,” he explains.
Noraidah offers her philosophy for consideration: “Explain the facts to children and allow them to enjoy all varieties of food.
“The most important thing is for them to have a positive relationship with food - then healthy eating will follow.”
Nutrition Society of Malaysia president Dr Tee E Siong says that instead of jumping the gun on condemning junk food, parents might want to focus on the ingredients involved in such foods.
“Local hawker fare, such as nasi lemak, roti cannai and so on can be just as unhealthy as what’s sold in fast food chains.”
“What’s best is to teach them on healthy eating habits from young.”
According to Dr Tee, children as young as one can benefit from nutrition education.
“You can get your children to talk about food and you need to lead by example.
If you get them actively involved, then it’s easier for them to understand the importance of a balanced diet.”
He also warns against parents who monitor their child’s eating habits too much, as that might reap adverse results.
“Your child might end up being repulsed with everything and develop unhealthy eating habits,” he explains.
Noraidah offers her philosophy for consideration: “Explain the facts to children and allow them to enjoy all varieties of food.
“The most important thing is for them to have a positive relationship with food - then healthy eating will follow.”
by PRIYA KULASAGARAN- STAR 29.7.2009
edit by, Panitia B.Inggeris
