Kampala, (UG):- Nutritionists at the Nutrition Rehabilitation Centre in Uganda have launched a phenomenon Fruit and vegetable intake challenge aimed at increasing the partake of fruits and veggies towards improved health of Ugandans.
The challenge slated to take from 19th April to 11th June 2024 was launched by the Nutrition Division Ministry of Health Mr Tim Mateeba who represented the Acting Commissioner.
While speaking at the event, he encourages the public to embrace the challenge that is set to foster healthy eating behaviour and also manage non-communicable diseases, adding that this should be phase 1 and later phase 3. He alluded to the organizers for this platform and encouraged all people to escalate this to social media handles.
Dr Robert Kalyesubula a consultant Physician and also the President of the Kidney Foundation of Uganda, elaborated why the challenge is for 50 days saying that behavioural change needs time and adaptability is needed for daily practice, while speaking at the online meeting, he described the physiological importance of the vegetables in the body.
Dr Charles Akiya the Commissioner of Non-Communicable Diseases, at the Ministry of Health, thanked the team for the initiative that will enhance a positive impact and pointed out the need to add physical activity to this challenge.
Dr Susan Nakireka, a Consultant Diabetologist and a representative of Uganda to the East African Non-Communicable Diseases Alliance, thanked the Nutrition teams for the endless work of advocacy this being the 2nd Nutrition challenge, the former being the zero-sugar challenge.
She said is part of and will offer the necessary discussions amidst the challenge, having witnessed the former challenge and lots of testimonies of success from the audience and said Uganda’s healthcare sector needs more boosting through such nutrition education.
Mr Gerald Nuwagira, Nutritionist with Action Against Hunger, led the introduction and gave the highlights of what will transpire in the due course,
- Daily nutrition education tips about the need for fruits and vegetables
- Tuesday and Thursday education webinars from 8-9 pm tackling topics such as,
- Preparation of fruits and vegetables to retain Nutrients,
- The proper timing of fruits and vegetables,
- Fruits and Skin Health,
- Vegetables and Eyes,
- Fruits and Vegetables and the NCDs,
- How kids can be persuaded to take fruits and Veggies,
- How to adapt and incorporate fruits and vegetables on a daily meal,
- Healthy Eating Plate,
- Fruits and Vegetables NOT to mix,
- Review webinars and Testimonies,
- Vegetables and Eye Health,
- Fruits and Vegetables and Obesity,
- Fruits and Vegetables and Kidney Health,
- Fruits and Vegetables and Cancers,
- Fruits and Vegetables in illnesses among many.
Why the Challenge?
First and foremost, fruits and vegetables are nutritional powerhouses, packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants that are crucial for overall health and well-being. Regular consumption of these nutrient-rich foods supports immune function, aids in digestion, promotes heart health, and reduces the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
By encouraging daily intake, we can ensure that individuals receive the essential nutrients their bodies need to thrive and maintain optimal health.
Moreover, incorporating a variety of fruits and vegetables into daily meals offers numerous benefits beyond basic nutrition. Different fruits and vegetables contain unique combinations of phytochemicals and antioxidants, each with its own health-promoting properties. By diversifying their fruit and vegetable intake, individuals can maximize the protective effects against various diseases and enhance their overall health outcomes.
Challenging people to consume vegetables and fruits daily also fosters habits that support weight management and overall dietary quality. Fruits and vegetables are low in calories and high in fiber, which helps promote feelings of fullness and satisfaction, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight. By prioritizing these nutrient-dense foods, individuals can reduce their intake of calorie-dense, nutrient-poor foods, such as processed snacks and sugary beverages, leading to improvements in overall dietary patterns.
Furthermore, regular consumption of fruits and vegetables supports environmental sustainability and food security. Plant-based foods generally have a lower environmental footprint compared to animal products, requiring fewer resources such as water and land for production. By promoting plant-based eating habits, we can reduce pressure on natural ecosystems, mitigate climate change, and contribute to a more sustainable food system that can meet the needs of present and future generations.
Encouraging daily consumption of vegetables and fruits also fosters culinary creativity and exploration. With a wide variety of fruits and vegetables available in different colors, flavors, and textures, there are endless possibilities for delicious and nutritious meals. Challenging individuals to incorporate new and unfamiliar produce into their diets can expand their culinary repertoire, enhance their cooking skills, and make healthy eating a more enjoyable and rewarding experience.
In conclusion, challenging people to consume vegetables and fruits daily is essential for promoting optimal health, supporting weight management, enhancing dietary quality, and fostering environmental sustainability.
By prioritizing these nutrient-rich foods and incorporating them into daily meals, individuals can reap a multitude of health benefits while contributing to a more sustainable and resilient food system for the future.
Kamara Daniel- Lead Nutritionist for the Challenge at Nutrition Rehabilitation Centre.
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