“World Food Day” being observed globally

ISLAMABAD: The nations across the globe observe “World Food Day” on Wednesday.

World Food Day is observed every year around the world on 16th October to generate awareness globally for those who suffer from hunger.

World Food Day aims to ensure the need for food security and nutritious diets for all. It was formed in 1979 originally.

The theme of World Food Day 2019 is “Our Actions Are Our Future. Healthy Diets for A #ZeroHunger World”. It focuses on tackling global hunger.

Also read: International Day of Girl Child being observed today

Due to globalisation, urbanisation and income growth, our diets and eating habits are changed. Instead of seasonal, fibre rich food and plant-based food we are shifted to refined, starches, sugar, fats, salt, processed food, meat, etc.

In urban areas, the time spent on preparing food or meals is very less because people these days rely on ready mate food, supermarkets, fast food, street food, etc.

Due to unhealthy diets and sedentary lifestyles obesity in people is increasing in developed, low-income countries.

Around 820 million people suffer from hunger. 670 million adults and 120 million girls and boys of the age group 5 to 18 years are obese and 40 million children under 5 are overweight.

*Things that you can do to eat healthier

Preventing lifestyle diseases is as easy as switching to a healthy diet. Though most people don’t know where to start. The following listed changes you can easily make:

!. Whenever possible, cook and eat at home.

2. Add more vegetables, fruits, legumes, and nuts in your diet.

3. Do not forget to read food labels.

4. Cut back on sugar, unhealthy fats and salt.

5. Swap refined white options with healthier brown options.

6. Add healthy unsaturated fats in your diet.

7. Exercise for at least half an hour every day.