Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Oct 16: Health experts have underlined the growing role of food habits in determining an individual’s risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart problems, diabetes, obesity, and certain forms of cancer.
They said that modern dietary patterns, marked by high consumption of fried, processed, and sugar-laden foods, are directly contributing to the rising burden of lifestyle-related diseases across the country, including Jammu and Kashmir.
The doctors and dieticians said that diet is one of the most important factors influencing long-term health outcomes.
They said poor dietary choices not only lead to obesity but also increase the likelihood of high blood pressure, cholesterol, insulin resistance, and metabolic disorders.
“What we eat every day determines how our body functions. Unhealthy foods disturb metabolism, increase fat accumulation, and trigger inflammation that contributes to heart disease, diabetes, and even some cancers,” said Dr Aadil Ahmad, a senior physician posted in south Kashmir.
He added that foods high in refined sugar, trans fats, and sodium, such as bakery items, sugary drinks, instant noodles, and fried snacks, are among the major culprits.
“Fried foods are particularly harmful because repeated oil heating produces toxic compounds that damage blood vessels and increase bad cholesterol,” he said, adding that excessive intake of fast food and soft drinks among the younger generation is alarming.
Nutritionist Dr Nazia Jan said that processed and packaged foods, though convenient, are often loaded with preservatives, artificial flavours, and unhealthy fats. “These foods are low in fibre and essential nutrients but high in calories, which promotes obesity and digestive issues,” she said.
She further noted that obesity itself is a major risk factor for several diseases. “Excess body fat, especially around the abdomen, increases the risk of type-2 diabetes, fatty liver disease, hypertension, and certain cancers, including breast and colon cancer,” she explained.
Doctors warned that frequent consumption of red meat and charred food items can contribute to cancer risk. Instead, they recommend a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, pulses, whole grains, lean proteins, and plenty of water.
“Natural foods have protective antioxidants and fibre that reduce cholesterol, maintain blood sugar, and prevent cell damage,” said Dr Nazia. She urged people to reduce salt and sugar intake, avoid overeating, and eat home-cooked meals.
Experts stressed maintaining portion control and regular physical activity. “A balanced lifestyle with daily exercise, adequate sleep, and minimal stress is as important as diet in staying disease-free,” they said.
They suggested that people follow the principle of moderation. “You don’t have to completely cut off your favourite foods, but limit fried and processed foods to occasional treats rather than daily meals,” they advised. “What we eat today shapes our health tomorrow, so people must eat accordingly.” (KNO)
