A healthy diet is a gateway to a healthier adulthood

“Schools are agents of change and should focus on balanced eating habits”

New Delhi, December 09, 2018:

The Delhi Public School, R K Puram, organized a Diet Mela ( SNF@School)on the 8^th of December 2018. Padma Shri Awardee, Dr K K Aggarwal, President, Heart Care Foundation of India (HCFI) was the SpecialGuest at the event.

Furthering his efforts towards encouraging healthy living and eating habits among the youngsters, Dr Aggarwal spoke about the importance of a balanced and healthy diet right from the childhood.

Statistics indicate that India has the second highest number of obese children in the world after China. About 14.4 million children in the country are overweight as per findings. Obesity is the leading cause of many health problems and globally, about 2 billion children and adults suffer from such issues.

Speaking about this, Dr Aggarwal, said, “Childhood obesity is increasing worldwide at an alarming pace. India has not been spared either. The prevalence of overweight and obesity in children is steadily increasing. A multifactorial disorder, unhealthy diet – eating foods high in fats, sugar and salt (junk food, processed food) and a sedentary lifestyle contribute significantly to this escalating epidemic. It is important to start inculcating good nutritional habits from the beginning in children. Ensuring enough physical activity right from an early age is an equally important aspect of every child’s growth. Prevention of lifestyle diseases should start early. Schools can help in shaping the lives of students and have a very important role to play in the battle against childhood obesity. Healthy habits in childhood lay a foundation for a healthier adulthood.”

He also discussed the concept of natural fast food which is the best. Some examples include bananas, orange, dry fruits, and milk. These have no side effects but only help in keeping the system healthy.

Adding further, Dr Aggarwal, said, “Schools can act as the agents of change given that children spend a significant amount of time in the institutions. The importance of a good diet should be taught here and children should be encouraged to adopt the same at home as well.”

“ You can not get or give a heart attack as a gift. You have to work for over 20 years against the laws of nature to get heart blockages, which means you have enough time to correct your lifestyle” concluded Dr Aggarwal.

Ms Vanita Sehgal Principal and Ms Anita Singh Vice Principal also spoke on the occasion.

Some tips from HCFI

Follow the formula moderation and variety
Salt, sugar and oils“ thoda kam”
Choose all seven colours and six tastes in diet
Encourage healthy eating habits right at the onset.
Eat less to live more
Longer the waist line shorter the lifeline
Try making favorite dishes healthier.
Few changes can make even snacks healthier.
Avoid tempting children with calorie-rich food. It is okay to treat them but in moderation and by limiting high-fat and high-sugar or salty snacks.
Make kids understand the importance of being physically active.
Lead by example. Indulge in at least 60 minutes of moderate to intense physical activity every day.
Reduce sedentary time. While reading is a good option, too much of screen time is not.
Replace screen time with the outdoors and fun activities to keep children engaged.