As the world marks the National Nutrition Month® this March, focus still remains on the importance of making informed food choices and responsible eating habits in order to enjoy healthy lives.
This year’s theme, “Go Further with Food”, is timely and serves as a wakeup call especially for regions like the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which has been on a warpath to combat lifestyle diseases in line with its Vision 2021 National Agenda to achieve a world-class healthcare system.
This ambitious plan seeks to help tackle and prevent illnesses such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes that are prevalent in the region. But as the country continues to make meaningful strides in improving the health standards of its residents, pressure is still mounting on its residents to pull their weight by paying particular attention to their lifestyles and diets. With cases of lifestyle diseases and conditions still the increase, a change in diet remains as the single most affordable and effective solution in reversing this deadly trend.
In its 2015 report, Euromonitor revealed that UAE residents were some of the biggest consumers of calories globally clocking an average of 1,000 per day mainly from junk food that dominates their daily diets. It also is estimated that by 2019, the average UAE consumer will purchase over 180 calories more per day. High calorie intake mainly from packaged foods and drinks, which has been closely associated with obesity, is a problem Emiratis seem to be grappling with. This, according to health and nutrition experts, continues to be a worrying trend whose consequences could be catastrophic for both the country’s citizenry and the regional economy in general.
With these shocking statistics, children still remain the most vulnerable, as a majority of parents, mothers in particular, are employed full-time. According to a study conducted by a group of UAE Doctors drawn from public health facilities, obesity cases among two and twelve year-olds is still on the increase.
Priyanka Mittal, director, KBRL Limited, makers of India Gate Quinoa, although concerned about the rising case of lifestyle diseases across all age groups in the region, is still optimistic that more people are now adopting a healthier lifestyle by changing their diets to include more natural food options.
“It is encouraging to see more people adopting a healthier lifestyle by becoming aware that they too, and their families, are at a risk of being diagnosed with diseases such as diabetes, obesity, or a cardiovascular condition. However, as a region, despite the efforts made, we are still not out of the woods yet. Preventative measures, such as dietary change, are the key in halting the rise of these diseases.” noted Priyanka.
Priyanka reiterates the importance of incorporating foods that are rich in proteins and high in fiber among other key nutrients in meals as critical in keeping lifestyle diseases at bay.
“As a company, we have always advocated for preventative measures through taking a proactive approach. These diseases can be prevented by not only going for regular medical checkups but most importantly by adopting a healthier diet regime and eating right.” said Priyanka.
But even as people slowly and grudgingly swap their greasy treats with organic food, more people, most of whom are still not yet convinced that organic foods can be just as tasty, need to be aware that lifestyle choices can adversely affect their overall health and wellbeing.
Priyanka cites foods such as quinoa as a healthier alternative that is easy to cook and adaptable to various tastes and cuisines. “For those looking to boost their health regime, quinoa is by far one of the most effective options available today. Its high source of vegetable protein, high iron concentrate, and ability to increases oxygen supply in the blood helps keep one energized, improves digestion, and aids muscle growth. Quinoa also helps the nervous system, and boosts weight loss as well as fights illnesses due to its high antioxidant count.” added Priyanka.
The UN named 2013 ‘International Quinoa Year’ in recognition of the crop’s high nutrient content. With twice the protein content of rice or barley, quinoa is also a very good source of calcium, magnesium and manganese. It also contributes useful levels of several B vitamins, vitamin E and dietary fiber.
