Health Minister Urges Parents to Limit Fast Food in Children’s Diets
The Ministry of Health is urging parents and guardians to take responsibility for their children’s health by limiting the consumption of fast food in their diets. In a recent statement, Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh emphasized that fast food, such as chicken and chips, pizzas, and hamburgers, should not be considered as regular meal options for children.
Deyalsingh encouraged parents to substitute sugary beverages with water and be mindful of the health risks associated with excessive sugar intake. He stressed the importance of moderation when it comes to consuming soft drinks and fast foods, while also promoting the inclusion of more fruits and vegetables in daily meals.
Speaking at the TT Moves health and wellness festival, Deyalsingh highlighted the need to address mental health issues that have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. He stated that mental health is crucial for overall well-being and emphasized the strong connection between mental and physical health.
Deyalsingh also addressed the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as high blood pressure and diabetes. He stated that a significant percentage of COVID-related deaths were associated with these comorbidities. Deyalsingh urged healthcare professionals to adopt a life course approach to tackling NCDs, starting from pregnancy.
The Health Minister commended the success of the national breastfeeding policy, which led to a significant increase in breastfeeding rates in the public health system. Additionally, he mentioned the ban on the sale of sugar-sweetened beverages in schools and encouraged parents to continue promoting healthy habits at home.
As part of their efforts to promote physical activity, the Ministry of Health launched the TT Moves pedometer app, which tracks daily steps and provides information on calorie output. Deyalsingh called on individuals to set a goal of 4,000 steps per day and announced plans to launch the app in schools.
The TT Moves health and wellness festival was organized by the South-West Regional Health Authority (SWRHA) in collaboration with the Ministry of Health. SWRHA CEO Dr. Brian Armour expressed pride in hosting the festival and reiterated the region’s commitment to transforming healthcare delivery and addressing NCDs.
The festival aimed to create an immersive and supportive environment for individuals to improve their understanding of health and wellness. Through various initiatives, the festival provided access to healthcare services and promoted healthy lifestyle practices. The involvement of national youth advocacy organizations and partner agencies was recognized as invaluable in promoting health and wellness.
MP Faris Al-Rawi, commending the Ministry of Health’s initiatives, emphasized the importance of understanding the caloric content of food and making informed choices. He stressed the need to educate individuals, especially in schools, about the nutritional value of different foods and the health risks associated with excessive sugar consumption.
Dr. Maria Clapperton, the Director of NCDs at the Ministry of Health, highlighted the significance of events like the TT Moves health and wellness festival in addressing NCD issues. She emphasized that these festivals not only promote healthy lifestyle practices but also make healthcare services more accessible to communities, emphasizing the importance of linkage to care.
Overall, the Ministry of Health’s message to prioritize healthy eating habits, limit fast food, and promote physical activity serves as a reminder for individuals to take ownership of their health and that of their families. By adopting a life course approach and making informed choices, individuals can improve their overall well-being and reduce the risk of NCDs.