Healthy eating habits should start at home and in school

Your editorial We must act now to limit the harms of sugar consumption (December 10) was clearly sending a strong message to society. It is a fact that children are the worst victims of excess consumption of sugar. They don’t realise the health risks involved when consuming food containing excess quantities of sugar, particularly chocolates and snacks that are easily available in stores. As children, how such habits could endanger their futures will not occur to them in their early years.

As a result of lifestyle changes, children tend to ignore the many health concerns that could arise when they become adults. The reality of “home, sweet home” could become their very own nightmare. Proper awareness at home and in school, where children spend most of their time, should be a priority for parents and teachers.

The displays in shopping malls influence children a lot but they never realise how such habits affect their future lives. Schools must stop selling high-sugar items in their canteens and put up awareness posters so children are able to realise the hidden dangers of excess sugar consumption. There should also be a control on advertising promoting chocolates and high-fructose foods. If parents can inculcate strong and healthy eating habits right from the early days, children wouldn’t feel that they are missing out on eating sweets.

Ramachandran Nair, Muscat

Unfortunately supermarkets are full of sugary drinks. Also, checkout counters are packed with sweets and chocolate. This makes them more tempting. In the UK, fast food chains have taken action to reduce drink sizes and calories. Surely the same could be done here.

Raj Jheeta, UAE