The women’s majlis: Healthy habits are learnt early on Healthy habits are learnt early on

Each month, Weekend will pose a different question to be debated on by a series of female Emirati columnists. This week, we ask Safiya Al Maskari:

What are the best ways to improve the overall health of UAE citizens?

In the 1970s, the UAE made a large investment in health services, causing a rise in the life expectancy of UAE citizens. After the country’s formation, it was among one of the first issues to be tackled. This shows that health was and still is an important facet of life in the UAE. However, today the health of UAE citizens is at risk due to unhealthy lifestyles among the majority of families. If the issue is not addressed seriously, the problem will eventually become too big to handle.

The simplest way to improve health is to exercise frequently. Just as children take sports classes in school, adults should also engage in exercise regularly, either in the gym or at home, to maintain a fit and healthy lifestyle. Rather than sitting in front of the TV or electronic gadgets all day, parents should spend time working out with their kids to establish a healthy bond and spend quality time together. The more adults practise this routine, the more likely their kids will pursue the same lifestyle.

In addition, healthy eating habits are key to improving health. Anything you put into your body is a mirror of how your health will turn out to be. Stable diets should be implemented in families, encouraging children to eat what is healthy and avoid what is not. It is the duty of parents to watch their children’s diets constantly, preventing them from eating out daily. It is important to avoid food filled with fat, artificial colouring, preservatives and all ingredients that are non-beneficial to their health.

Nowadays, people spend a large amount of time with electronics, such as mobile phones and computers, and less time socialising with people. This lack of social life or movement is a major cause in the deterioration of health. The more time a person spends in front of electronics, the less likely they are to move or pay attention to their physical health.

To see noticeable improvements, the following points should take effect at schools: fundamental changes in school curriculums, control of food supply, the education of parents on the importance of health and campaigns on health awareness. This must be done, as it is obvious that the current efforts are neither sufficient nor effective.

The biggest mistake you could make is neglecting your health during your youth. Most people start looking after their health once they are older when they become conscious of their physical limitations. A healthy lifestyle should be maintained throughout your life.

Being a bad example will only cause the next generation to be less healthy than the one before. You are accountable for your actions and should always keep in mind the future generation of the country.

Safiya Al Maskari is an interior designer and research assistant at the National Centre for Documentation and Research

weekend@thenational.ae