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Combating Adolescent Obesity |
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The Malaysian Ministry of Health has raised an alarming concern—over 30 percent
of today’s adolescents are either overweight or obese. This statistic should not
be taken lightly, particularly by parents and guardians, as it indicates a
rising trend that puts the younger generation at risk of serious health issues
such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. To prevent this crisis
from escalating, society must be more vigilant and proactive in encouraging
healthy lifestyles among youths.
A crucial step in tackling obesity is promoting a balanced and nutritious diet.
Adolescents need proper guidance from parents and educators to understand the
importance of healthy eating. They should be taught to critically evaluate food
advertisements and avoid being easily influenced by promotional content,
especially those pushing unhealthy products. The food pyramid serves as a
practical guide in determining proper nutrient intake, highlighting the need to
reduce consumption of high-fat, sugary, and non-nutritious items like fast food
and carbonated drinks.
Besides eating right, adolescents should also be encouraged to participate in
physical activities regularly. Unfortunately, many young people today spend
their leisure time glued to screens, browsing the internet or watching online
content. This sedentary lifestyle can lead to weight gain and reduced physical
fitness. To counter this, communities should make full use of existing public
facilities such as playgrounds and recreational parks. Activities like jogging,
badminton, or futsal not only help maintain a healthy weight but also benefit
mental and emotional well-being.
Limiting gadget usage is another effective way to address adolescent obesity.
This responsibility primarily falls on parents, who must monitor and regulate
their children's screen time. Spending more than three to five hours a day on
electronic devices not only harms physical health and posture but also affects
vision and reduces physical activity. Excessive screen time is often accompanied
by unhealthy snacking, which further increases the risk of obesity and even
dental problems due to high sugar content.
In conclusion, preventing adolescent obesity is a collective responsibility that
requires consistent effort from parents, schools, and the wider community.
Encouraging a balanced diet, promoting physical activity, and controlling gadget
use are fundamental strategies in ensuring the younger generation leads a
healthier, more active life. Through these combined efforts, we can build a
healthier future for our youth. |
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