FAO NUTRITION AND FOOD SYSTEMS: e-CONSULTATION ON AN ISSUE NOTE OF HLPE STEERING COMMITTEE.
Manuel Moya. International Pediatric Association, Spain
From the point of view of malnutrition occurrence in low- and middle-income counties (LMIC), there is a coexistence of underweight and overweight that greatly affects children and adolescents. In general, if underweight population is decreasing the overweight is increasing at a higher rate. One of the best possibilities for prevention of adult obesity and its comorbidities is starting this at early ages, because once the obesity is established the possibilities of reversing it are poor. Therefore the appropriateness of the NUTRITION AND FOOD SYSTEM is clear. Prior to comment on the given ten issues it is necessary to say that the actions in cities are different than those of much more complicated rural areas.
1 How and why do diets… In early ages bogus science is promoting formulas decreasing breastfeeding. In later ages promotion of sugar sweetened beverages, palatable dense caloric foods, pre-prepared food is cornering local plant food.
2. What are the links …Once the palatable and easy to eat food is incorporated in the (obesogenic) diet, it is difficult to remove.
3. How do changes in food systems affect … Overweight, obesity and possibly hypertension.
4. What are the determinants of the changes… TV announcements (demonstrated in HIC), and in LMIC possibly broadcasted adverts and gifts in the packs of food.
6. How to shape… Education of children at schools or by rural groups, and perhaps with short radio broadcasted messages.
In summary the actions to be taken in this respect would be:
- Facilitate the flow of foods from the orchards to shops
- ‘New shops’ besides the Occidentalized (taxed?) food should have the basic local food in a relevant position
- Milk and dairy products are acceptable items but as long as they do not displace fruit comsumption.
Manuel Moya BenaventManuel Moya Benavent