Obesity is an epidemic lifestyle disorder affecting millions of people globally. This health problem puts people at a higher risk for other severe disorders including cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. World Obesity Day is observed on 4 March annually, to emphasise the environmental and medical factors that lead to high obesity rates and stress on what can be done to end this stigma. This health event also fosters practical strategies to help people attain a healthy weight, get the right treatment and converse obesity crisis.

This year’s theme is “Everybody Needs Everybody” which received extraordinary support from all groups of people globally to effectively combat this lifestyle disorder.

Also Read: Obesity: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment

Significance Of World Obesity Day

As per the reports, obesity rates have tripled since 1975 and have elevated almost 5 times in children and adolescents, affecting all age groups in both developed and developing countries. Obese people are constantly body shamed and blamed. Policymakers and health experts completely understand the causes of obesity are mostly related to complex factors including diet, lifestyle, genetic, psychological, sociocultural, economic, and environmental that needs to be addressed. This health event works to break the cycle of shame and blame and reassess strategies for focusing on this complicated global public health issue.

Together we can make a big difference to fight this stigma including limiting the marketing to children of processed food and drinks, taxing sugary beverages, and offering better access to affordable, wholesome food. Also, more space is to be allocated for safe walking, cycling and other recreational activities. It is essential to nurture healthy eating practise and disciplined lifestyle habits at a younger age. As, obesity is one of the biggest public health challenges, and a life-changing health problem that rises the chance of comorbidities and doubles the risk of COVID-19 hospitalisation. However, an obese person still lacks assistance and face humiliation at every level. To change this reality, we need to take action at the local, national, and global levels.

Importance Of World Obesity Day

Frightful Health Consequences:

Obesity is known to cause serious health issues. Women with obesity have a higher risk of developing breast cancer and evidence shows that obesity can increase the mortality rate.

Highly Prevalent:

Obesity rates are drastically increasing. As per statistics, about 39 million children under the age of 5 are obese or overweight.

Stigmatizing:

Most of us believe that the root cause of obesity is laziness, while employers often discriminate against overweight people. Also, children constantly face bullying.

Also Read: Healthy Eating Food Pyramid: A Guide To Better Health - Infographic

Ways To Prevent Obesity

Simple Tips For Kids

Obesity prevention should start at a young age, and it is vital to support children to maintain a healthy weight without aiming at the scale.

• Infants should be breastfed for at least one year of age, as breastfeeding is linked with a reduced risk of childhood obesity.
• Feed children with correct portion sizes
• Foster early rapport with wholesome foods
• Eat foods as a family, this lets children experience healthy eating early on
• Practise slow eating for better digestion and encourage the child to eat only when they feel hungry
• Motivate the child to engage in fun and interesting physical activities
• Limit child's screen time
• Ensure the child is getting sound sleep

Simple Tips For Adults

• Making healthier food choices – eating more fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean sources of proteins like legumes, beans and fish
• Avoid all saturated and trans-fat foods and include moderate amounts of healthy fats like olive and nut oils in the meal plan
• Restricting intake of processed and sugary food and beverages.
• Reducing calories intake and risk of overeating
• Paying attention to low glycaemic index foods that helps to keep blood sugar levels under control
• Getting regular physical activity, at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity workout a week to avert further weight gain or to sustain lost weight
• Managing stress and getting help from health specialists to address emotional and behavioural issues related to eating