Velisha Thompson of the City of Johannesburg writes:
The City of Johannesburg is changing course to encourage its communities to live healthier lifestyles.
As a result, it has embarked on initiatives to promote physical activity as well as healthy eating, however, deaths from lifestyle diseases are on the increase.
“Tuberculosis is still the biggest killer in all but two provinces,” according to data released by Statistics SA in March 2014 on the causes of death in 2011. Together, strokes and heart disease account for nearly as many deaths as tuberculosis (TB).
Most chronic diseases including HIV are treatable. Most deaths are due to our poor lifestyles. We consume too much alcohol, smoke, eat a poor diet and don’t exercise. Exercise plays a key role in the prevention of disease.
Unhealthy fast foods are being consumed more by the young and old. Even the township kota (African burger) are not considered to be healthier food options.
In most parts of the world, especially South Africa, non-communicable diseases have become a major epidemic. Statistics have also shown that the South African community has a high rate of obesity among adults and children.
Having a diet high in fat or fried foods and a lack of exercise result in obesity. If you are obese, you need to take the necessary steps to reduce your weight and change your lifestyle. Reduction of stress, not smoking, healthy diets and exercise assist in reducing weight.
Include fresh fruit and vegetables in your daily diet. This could be done by initiating food gardens in your community or homes. Eat smaller meals throughout the day instead of large meals three times and day.
Avoid fried and fatty foods, amagwinya (vetkoek), scones and cakes. A total of 30 minutes of physical activity every day will also benefit you tremendously. Encourage children to eat healthily and take part in sporting activities provided by schools and other organisations. All sugar is not good – including brown sugar.
Physical activity also includes sport and other activities such as walking up the stairs instead of taking the lift, taking a walk during lunch breaks, playing active games, dancing, cycling, swimming and jumping.
If you are on chronic treatment, please take your medication as prescribed by the nurse or doctor at the correct times and with or without meals as indicated.
