HOW FAST FOOD AFFECTS CHILDREN

We discussed young children's health in the UAE with Mr Sohaib Masood, CEO of Pepe's Piri Piri, and how the growing availability of fast food options in the region raises significant concerns.

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The issue of unhealthy eating among children these days is alarmingly high, partly due to the availability of fast-food delivery. On average, children consume processed fast food at least once a week. Not only does this lead to poor dietary choices, but it also involves improper meal timing and a lack of physical activity, which negatively impacts both their young bodies and minds.

A GROWING ISSUE

It's a well-known saying that "you are what you eat" and numerous studies have shown that junk food shapes young brains in ways that impair their ability to think, learn and remember, as well as potentially leading to an increase in aggression and other behavioural issues. Researchers have also discovered that people who regularly consume processed foods tend to underperform compared to those with healthier diets. In addition to issues related to brain development and neurology, other health complications, such as diabetes, childhood obesity and high cholesterol, are common.

THE IMPORTANCE OF NUTRITION