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Medical group sound alarm over CVDs, diabetes in kids

SAN JOSE, Antique (PIA) -- The Antique Medical Society (AMS) warns the public of the prevalence of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and diabetes among the younger population. 

In a press conference, AMS member and lifestyle medicine specialist Dr. Arleen Joy Vallejo said that she accommodates many pediatric cases of fatty liver, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, high cholesterol, and chronic kidney disease.

Vallejo cited an unhealthy diet from the consumption of foods rich in trans fat, saturated fat, sodium, and refined carbohydrates as one of the top contributors to poor health among children.

According to her, intake of fatty foods, such as pork, poultry, cheese, butter, and margarine, increases bad cholesterol in the body and leads to a greater risk of getting CVDs, liver diseases, cancer, obesity, and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

The medical specialist also emphasized that saturated fat is a culprit in developing diabetes as it causes the body to be resistant to insulin naturally produced by the pancreas to regulate blood sugar levels. 

With the high content of calories, fats, salt, refined sugar, preservatives, chemicals, and other artificial ingredients, the public is also cautioned of the frequent consumption of fast food, frozen, packaged, and canned goods, as well as sweetened beverages. 

Considering the ill effects of an unhealthy diet on the body, the AMS is advocating for the reintroduction of whole food, plant-based diet in everyday meals, urging Antiqueños to take advantage of the province's sufficient agricultural produce.

While it may be difficult to feed children with greens especially when they are first introduced to processed food and 

sweets, Dr. Vallejo stressed that parents and guardians can start off by feeding them the fruits and vegetables they like.

Allowing children to choose what fruits and vegetables they want to try next, involving them in food preparation, incorporating creativity in food preparation, consistently putting fruits and vegetables on the table, and parents and guardians becoming role models may also help in the diet shift.

The AMS also underscored the equal importance of physical activities, healthy social interactions, quality and enough sleep, and even limited gadget screen time in promoting a healthy lifestyle for kids. (AGP/BPS/PIA Antique)

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Bernard Ceasar Susbilla

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