How school canteens are fighting child obesity

They say repetition is the key to success, but despite reading countless reports about the rise in childhood obesity in the UAE, the situation isn't getting any better.
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Although the message for immediate change is constantly being drummed into us, the reality is, very little is changing. And the numbers here prove it.
Statistics released for 2014-15 by the Dubai Health Authority's (DHA) Schools and Educational Institutions Unit back in July showed that 33 per cent of school children from kindergarten to grade 12 across 176 private schools are either overweight or obese.
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Of that figure, 14 to 16 per cent are obese.
But why? Over the past few decades we have witnessed a huge change in the dietary habits of people living in Dubai.
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It has shifted from a traditional healthier diet to one with poor nutritional qualities. Physical activity has taking a backseat too, especially in children.
But with students spending a huge chunk of their day in school, the school canteen is the best place to start when it comes to tackling childhood obesity.
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According to the 'Guide of Health and Nutritional Practices of School Canteens' by the Dubai Municipality (DM) and the DHA, "most children consume half their daily calories at school".
As such, schools are responsible for a child's physical and developmental growth, as well as their academic prowess.
Positive eating habits
A sample survey on nutrition and health by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) does highlight some positive eating habits among children though.
According to its figures, 72 per cent of children aged between 12 and 16 years surveyed eat a good breakfast in the morning, with 65 per cent admitting they go to school feeling well rested.
Among those aged between 9 and 13 years, 80 per cent ate breakfast and 83 per cent said they go to school feeling well rested.
Additionally, 92 per cent and 94 per cent (respectively) said they liked to be physically active.
These results prove that the children themselves seem willing to lead more nutrition-conscious and active lives.
And the fact that a standard physical education guideline has been launched in schools - which is mandatory for students from primary to secondary age - is also a positive step forward.
A huge advocate of good nutrition in schools is Dr Hamed Yahyah Hussein, family and community medicine specialist at the DHA's schools and educational institutions health unit.
He said breakfast is the most important meal of the day. "Studies show that children who eat a nutritious breakfast function better. They do better in school, and have better concentration and more energy."
We are increasingly seeing schools here strengthen their nutritional standards in compliance with the DM and DHA rules. But it is now up to parents to ensure they are doing the same at home.
kelly@khaleejtimes.com