The National Day to Combat Obesity was observed this October, and this regard, health professionals emphasised the importance of fostering healthy habits from childhood. The initiative seeks to raise public awareness about the prevention and management of this serious health issue. In Paraguay, seven out of ten adults are overweight.
The National Day against obesity was established in Paraguay on October 11. This date seeks to raise awareness of the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. A healthy life includes regular physical activity such as walking, outdoor play, exercise, and sports. Accompanied by a varied and balanced diet. These habits contribute to creating healthy environments that encourage future generations to maintain a better quality of life.
A growing health concern
Obesity is a chronic and multifactorial disease. This illness occurs when the body accumulates an excess of fat. Depending on its severity, it creates health risks that limit both life expectancy and quality of life.
In Paraguay, seven out of ten adults are overweight. While one in three children and adolescents lives with this condition. One of the main challenges for public health is the prevalence of obesogenic environments. That is characterised by the predominance of ultra-processed foods and fast foods, excessive consumption of sugary drinks, and increasingly sedentary lifestyles. Combined with frequent tobacco and alcohol use, these habits worsen the situation.
Over the years, it has been proven that environments exposed to unhealthy habits and behaviours significantly increase the risk of developing chronic diseases. Such diseases are obesity, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure, among others.
Health as a shared responsibility
Obesity is also a risk factor for breast cancer, which makes the advocacy and practice of healthy habits, along with annual check-ups, essential.
The Directorate of Surveillance of Non-Communicable Diseases stresses that it is vital to recognise that health is a social phenomenon and a shared responsibility. Professionals note that it is not only about providing medical services but also about creating optimal conditions that allow people to live fully and healthily.
Ways to combat obesity
Awareness and nutrition education involve learning about healthy eating without resorting to extreme diets. To begin with, it is important to understand balance, and make informed food choices. Also, to recognise that proper nourishment comes from moderation rather than restriction. By developing awareness, individuals can build a positive relationship with food and promote long-term well-being.
Moreover, stress and anxiety management play a vital role in maintaining both mental and physical health. Practising relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help calm the mind and body. In addition, finding healthy outlets for emotions, through exercise, art, or other fulfilling activities, encourages emotional balance and resilience in everyday life.
Activities you truly enjoy
Furthermore, encouraging enjoyable physical activity means choosing forms of movement that are genuinely fun and engaging. Rather than forcing yourself to exercise, it is better to find activities you truly enjoy. By incorporating movement naturally through walking, swimming, dancing, or playing with pets, you can stay active pleasantly and effortlessly while also improving your mood and energy levels.
Finally, building sustainable habits requires small, gradual changes in both diet and lifestyle. Instead of seeking quick fixes, focus on consistency and balance. Likewise, creating an environment that supports healthy choices, such as keeping nutritious snacks readily available, helps maintain progress and promotes lasting well-being.
