As Asian countries struggle to tackle the health problems of the younger generation, non-communicable diseases are on the rise and develop at a younger age.
In addition, new waves of Covid-19 have ravaged the region, making people, especially the youth, more vulnerable.
Patients with pre-existing conditions are also likely to experience more severe symptoms and complications if they are infected with the coronavirus.
For this reason, Dr. Simon Sum, Nutritionist and Director of Scientific Affairs, Product Science and Innovation at Herbalife Nutrition, says it is urgent and critical to promote the health of young people through nutrition education in this time of uncertainty.
What lifestyle habits should you avoid to minimize the early onset of diabetes?
Asians tend to develop diabetes at a younger age. To counter this, we need to focus on adopting better eating habits and a healthy, active lifestyle sooner.
Currently, young people can experience extreme stress and enjoy unhealthy, high-calorie foods high in sodium, saturated fat, and added sugar.
These foods are generally cheaper and more convenient to buy.
That being said, with online courses and home schooling, the teens and younger children may not be as active in sports and other physical activities. In the long run, this can contribute to unhealthy weight gain and other health problems.
The four major non-communicable diseases (NCD) defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) are cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, cancer and chronic respiratory disease. Are they genetic? How do you minimize the risk of a diagnosis?
While genetics and family history play a role, other risk factors include poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, and harmful alcohol use, typically seen in adolescence and young adulthood.
Since we cannot control our genetics, the most important way to prevent NCDs is through healthy eating habits.
Diet changes in Asia have contributed significantly to rising NCD rates. Over the years there have been changes from healthier traditional diets to practical fast food diets and junk food.
As a result, in addition to overweight and obesity, an insufficient intake of vitamins and minerals is also an issue in young people – a double burden of malnutrition.
What foods should I eat for weight control?
There are no magic foods that can reduce our weight and it’s all about calories in versus calories out.
However, one way to keep our weight healthy is to replace simple carbohydrates with complex carbohydrates like whole grains, peas, and beans.
With a lower glycemic index and higher levels of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, these carbohydrates are digested more slowly, making them more filling and a better option for weight and blood sugar control.
Drinking is common among young people today. When does it become harmful to health?
According to the WHO, a standard drink is 10g of pure ethanol. The recommendation for both men and women is on average no more than two drinks per day.
Alcohol becomes harmful if it is consumed in excess of the moderate amount. This can lead to alcohol abuse and other harmful side effects.
