A family medicine consultant has highlighted that over 60% of children visiting his clinic are grappling with obesity, primarily due to the surge in food delivery services and the decline in physical activity. Dr. Ahmad Mohammed Abdul Malik, a family medicine consultant from Kuwait, shared his concerns with Khaleej Times: "In Kuwait, as well as in the Gulf and the UAE, more than 60% of children are affected, and this percentage is on the rise, which is a worrying trend."
During his presentation at the 10th Health Conference in Sharjah, Dr. Ahmad criticized the contemporary habit of frequently ordering food, contrasting it with previous generations who dined out only once a week. He noted that today’s children often order food six to seven times a day. "This is detrimental to the younger generation," he cautioned, pointing to the alarming rates of obesity among children, many of whom complain of neck and back pain.
Dr. Ahmad urged parents to actively manage their children’s eating habits, suggesting that mothers should implement strategies at home to limit take-out orders. He advised that when food is ordered, parents should opt for healthier options and promote home-cooked meals.
Additionally, Dr. Ahmad emphasized the need to instill healthy behaviors early in childhood. "The sooner we introduce healthy eating habits, the more natural it becomes for children to adopt them," he said. He shared an example of a young girl who, from a young age, was accustomed to eating dark chocolate, preferring varieties with 70% cocoa and inquiring about fruits like bananas and strawberries. This demonstrated that children can develop a preference for healthier options if properly guided.
Dr. Ahmad also underscored the importance of integrating physical activity into family routines, suggesting that exercise should be a shared family activity to promote healthier lifestyles. He recommended designating specific days for ordering takeout to balance convenience with healthier choices. Families are encouraged to prioritize nutrition and make deliberate efforts to address the escalating health issues affecting today’s youth and children.
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