AT A time when there is little to cheer about, action by parents in improving their children’s diets is a welcome development in challenging the rising tide of obesity. By last summer, an estimated 300,000 children were seriously overweight and the number was rising rapidly. But public education programmes appear to be having a positive effect. An official survey has found that more than half of all parents are now preparing more meals using raw ingredients and have cut back on fatty foods.
Good health is a priceless asset for those immediately concerned. But a healthy population can also save the State vast amounts of money in forgone hospital and medical treatments. With the Government cutting back on its healthcare budget, every family can contribute through diet and exercise to the longevity of its members and the wellbeing of the nation. Overweight children and adults are more likely to develop diabetes, cancers and dementia in their later years. Diabetes can lead to lost productivity, amputations and huge hospital bills. It is a dreadful prospect in purely human terms. With one-quarter of our population now obese and predictions that the figure could grow to half of all citizens in 20 years, it amounts to a national emergency.
The Food Safety Authority has encouraged manufacturers to reduce the salt, sugar and fat content of their products on a voluntary basis, but with little significant effect. Today, even so-called “healthy” food products may exceed established guidelines for these additives. A shop-bought pizza can contain the recommended fat intake for an entire day. And the regular use of fast food outlets as a source of family meals can be particularly problematic. In such circumstances, controlling television advertising of junk foods for children is only part of the solution. Parents must be encouraged to protect their children by providing healthy home-cooked meals. A child in a family that eats together will consume more fruit and vegetables and less fat.
A public health campaign run by Safefood is now moving on from encouraging families to eat well, to promoting physical activity. Sixty per cent of parents have reported their children are devoting more time to physical activity. But there is plenty of room for improvement. Now that summertime has come in, walking to school would provide much-needed exercise for children, while encouraging their maturity and independence. And, at weekends, all families can benefit from a walk in the mountains, at the seaside or in a local park. Staying fit and healthy will save money in the long run.