With the theme of World Health Day being “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures”, Dr. Sonia Gandhi, Head of the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Fortis Hospital, Mohali, has opined that the poor dietary habits and sedentary lifestyle are the leading causes of rising NCDs (Non-Communicable Diseases) among children and adolescents.
Dr. Gandhi said that children with poor eating habits often fail to receive the essential nutrients required for their healthy growth and development.
“In recent years, there has been an alarming increase in health problems among young people, largely attributed to unhealthy eating habits and a sedentary lifestyle. Research highlights that these factors significantly contribute to obesity, PCOD, cardiovascular diseases, insulin sensitivity, compromised gut health, weak immune system, metabolic disorders, allergy reactions and poor overall physical and mental health due to lots of essential nutrients deficiencies and excess intake of empty calories, harmful additives and chemicals”, she said.
Dr. Gandhi added, “Children with poor eating habits don’t get the amounts of nutrients they need for healthy growth and development. This can lead to being underweight or overweight. Children who are poorly nourished tend to have weaker immune systems, which increases their chances of number of illness also”.
Highlighting dietary trends among young people, Dr. Gandhi pointed out the increasing intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and nutrient-poor meals.
“The lack of a balanced, varied diet—rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, proteins, and healthy fats, has a direct impact on children’s health. Irregular eating patterns and frequent meal skipping also contribute to obesity and other health issues among adolescents,” she added.
Dr. Gandhi also raised concerns about the rapid increase in screen time. He further said “
“Excessive use of televisions, computers, and smartphones has been linked not only to inactivity but also to poor dietary behaviors. These include mindless snacking, overeating, and a reduced intake of nutritious food. Research has shown that prolonged sedentary behavior contributes to weight gain and increases the risk of cardiometabolic diseases, even when dietary intake is controlled,” she said.
Several socio-environmental factors contribute to these unhealthy trends, according to Dr. Gandhi. These include academic pressure, the popularity of online food delivery platforms, persuasive advertising of junk food, limited access to safe recreational spaces, and shifting taste preferences.
“Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach,” she emphasized, adding, “From building child-friendly environments and reducing screen exposure to promoting physical activity and nutrition education—each step is crucial. It’s time for parents, educators, policymakers, and healthcare professionals to work together to promote healthier lifestyles among our youth.”
Dr. Gandhi reiterated the importance of early lifestyle interventions.
“Healthy beginnings lead to hopeful futures. Encouraging nutritious eating habits, regular physical activity, and mindful living from a young age can transform health trajectories and ensure better outcomes for the next generation,” she said.
