The World Health Organization (WHO) has urged Europe to fight its obesity "epidemic", which is responsible for at least 1.2 million deaths a year.
The WHO says that the majority (60%) of adults and almost a third of children in Europe are overweight or obese. North and South America is the only place where these rates are higher.
The organisation says it's not too late to reverse this terrible trend, but it requires action from the governments of the most affected countries.
Reducing fatty foods and sugary drinks
The problem is that most processed and unhealthy foods and drinks are currently the cheapest and these products are so popular among consumers, especially from low-income households. People would buy less harmful products if the prices were significantly higher. Therefore, one of the solutions is adding a special tax on fatty foods and sugary drinks. The WHO says it will effectively fight obesity and type 2 diabetes among kids and adults.
The WHO has long urged countries to tax unhealthy foods but governments have been slow to act, claiming this might be unpopular with businesses or poorer citizens.
The UK is one of the most obese countries
According to the WHO, Europe, the UK is one of the worst countries. It currently ranks as the fourth worst in the prevalence of overweight and obesity among adults. However, the government is trying to implement new policies in order to change this situation.
Last month, the government introduced mandatory calorie labelling for all the restaurants, cafes and takeaways in England with more than 250 employees. Following this, in October, multi-buy deals will be banned for food and drinks that contain more fat, salt and sugar. No more 'buy one get one free' or '3 for 2' offers will be available for this kind of products. and salt. Shops and supermarkets will no longer be allowed to promote unhealthy food and drinks in visible locations of stores, for example, the entrances and checkouts.
In 2023 the government plans to introduce a new law restricting the advertising of unhealthy foods packed with sugar, salt and fat before 9 pm on TV. The WHO also recommended regulating the number of takeaways in low-income neighbouthoods.
Wholefood diet is healthier and more affordable
Whole foods are natural products and real foods like vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, seeds, cereals that haven't be processed in the factory. They do not contain any added ingredients like sugars, starches, sodium, flavourings, preservatives and many other chemicals. Instead, they offer everything your body needs in the purest form - nutrients, vitamins, minerals, fibre, refine carbohydrates and protein.
In fact, you can eat healthy without breaking the bank. Many whole food products are affordable for a small budget family. For example, dry beans are cheaper than canned beans, same for any other legume. The secret is buying in bulk and cooking at home. And this is very easy these day, with many whole food recipes ideas available online for free and new regular low prices at Wholefood Earth! We want to make healthy foods accessible to every family in the UK, and that's why we cut our priced forever.
