50% of kids don't eat vegetables and fruits Okaz/Saudi Gazette JEDDAH — A symposium educating families on the problem of obesity among children was held at Dar Al-Tarbiya Modern School in Jeddah, Thursday. It was under the patronage of Princess Adela Bint Abdullah Bin Abdul Aziz and organized by the Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital in Jeddah in collaboration with the Ministry of Health. Addressing the inaugural session, Princess Adela said: “About 50 percent of children do not eat fruit and vegetables. This is why campaigns aimed at tackling child obesity are of special importance.” She praised the role of civil and social institutions. “I need not mention that such campaigns organized in malls and schools which focus on the issue are complementary,” she added. She also warned about negative pastimes like spending long hours watching TV programs. “All studies show that bad habits are directly responsible for the spread of obesity among children in Saudi Arabia.” She admitted that a large part of the problem may be unavoidable, as 15 percent of children are genetically prone to obesity. However, she stressed the importance of changing children's lifestyles. “Children who consume large quantities of foods high in calories and protein while watching TV programs become fat,” Princess Adela said. Lubna Amoura, a dietician, emphasized the importance of such symposiums for Saudi society. “The campaign is not limited to children, but is directed at the entire society to educate it on the risks of obesity.” __
