Seminar on National Healthy Diet Policy highlights nutrition challenges in Pakistan

The recent seminar on the National Healthy Diet Policy, organized by the Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI) and Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), shed light on the pressing need to address nutrition issues in Pakistan. The seminar emphasized the significance of engaging all stakeholders, including youth and women, in developing effective policies to combat the increasing prevalence of child diseases.

Experts at the seminar revealed alarming statistics showing that a considerable number of children under five years old in Pakistan are affected by stunting, wasting, and obesity. The lack of attention to diet and nutrition among the general population was identified as a major concern.

Dr. Shahzad Ali Khan, a key speaker at the event, stressed the importance of a rights-based approach to breastfeeding and highlighted the risks associated with not breastfeeding infants with their mother's milk. Unhealthy eating habits were noted to be widespread across all socio-economic groups in Pakistan.

The speakers underscored the critical role of a healthy diet in reducing disease risks, particularly among children. They emphasized that good nutrition is essential for overall health and well-being, significantly impacting an individual's health.

The seminar also addressed the issue of malnutrition in Pakistan, calling for immediate action to tackle this growing problem. It was suggested that a comprehensive healthy diet policy should involve input from various sectors, including academia, youth, and the private sector.

The National Healthy Diet Policy was identified as a vital document that aims to bridge data gaps, ensure inclusivity, and gather feedback from all stakeholders. This policy is envisioned to steer the country towards a healthier future by promoting improved nutrition and dietary practices.