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Childhood obesity- a bad sign of what might follow

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by Randima Attygalle

‘All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy’ calls for rephrasing today into ‘Bad food and screen time make Jack an obese boy’. Childhood obesity is increasing rapidly in Sri Lanka and the present COVID-19 pandemic is a double whammy, with children being home-bound with no physical activity. The increased screen time spent on virtual learning adds fuel to the fire.

“Although we did see more obese and overweight children in high income settings in the past, today the incidence of obesity is rising among the urban middle class,” observes the Consultant Paediatrician and Professor of Paediatrics from General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, Prof. Ishani Rodrigo. She cites a recent survey among 5-18 year olds in urban Sri Lanka which showed an obesity prevalence of 10.3% and overweight prevalence of 11.3%. Studies in the Colombo, Gampaha and Jaffna Districts reflect a higher prevalence of childhood obesity says Dr. Rodrigo. “We are yet to unearth island-wide data on the problem,” she adds.

In 2019, according to the WHO, an estimated 38.2 million children worldwide, under the age of five years were overweight or obese. Once considered a high-income country problem, excess weight and obesity are now on the rise in low- and middle-income countries, particularly in urban settings. In Africa, the number of overweight children under five has increased by nearly 24% percent since 2000. Almost half of the children under five who were overweight or obese in 2019 lived in Asia.

The etiology of obesity is multi-factorial and complex. Although at a basic level it is about more ‘calories in’ than ‘calories out’, there is a genetic contribution as well, says the paediatrician. “Although pathological obesity is attributed to medical conditions such as Cushings Syndrome and hypothyroidism what is more often seen is simple obesity. It is often the food and lifestyle which contribute to it.”

Increased intake of food high in simple carbohydrates, sugars and fats, convenience food such as pastries and kottu high in energy, fast food, sweetened beverages, flavoured milk, fizzy drinks, large portion sizes and frequent snacking are among the major triggers of obesity in children. Poor intake of vegetables and fruit in the diet, less outdoor play, increased screen time, less household chores for children and dependence on electrical appliances as opposed to doing tasks manually have made the situation worse.

Food advertising aimed at children, enabling availability of sugary beverages at affordable prices and lack of healthy food choices in school canteens/tuck shops (the choices largely being starchy and sugary food) have also accelerated this national health dilemma. “In the UK, the school meal policy was revised, adopting the healthy school lunches which were promoted by the famous master chef Jamie Oliver. The country also imposed a sugar tax on beverages depending on the amount of sugar they contain,” explains Prof. Rodrigo who calls for a similar shift in the local policy. “Although the Ministry of Health had issues dietary guidelines, they have not yet filtered to communities and there are no national level programmes to have a dialogue with parents, teachers and school authorities on this national health crisis.”

COVID pandemic has also led to an alarming increase in the weight of children across all age groups. “Children have lost most opportunities for physical activities including walking to school, playing with friends and organized sports. With virtual classrooms replacing real classrooms, children spend a considerable time before screens. Most of the entertaining is also afforded by screens. With very little to do at home, children eat often to relieve their boredom and mothers too tend to make more treats at home and feed their children which could go against them.”

Once obesity is established, managing of it becomes very challenging, warns Dr. Rodrigo who urges parents to encourage healthy eating and living. “Children usually eat the family diet, hence if the family diet is rich in starchy, fatty and sugary food and low in vegetables and fruit, they will automatically follow this.”

The long term repercussions of childhood obesity are multiple: adult obesity, the increased risk of cardiovascular disease, hypertension, heart disease, strokes and orthopaedic complications including joint pains and early osteoarthritis, increased levels of cholesterol, Type 2 diabetes and fatty liver are among these. The condition can also trigger skin problems such as thickening and discolouration of skin and stretch marks and also cause breathing problems including obstructive sleep apnea (stopping breathing during sleep), obstruction to airway and snoring. Childhood obesity also increases risk of fractures and certain cancers in adulthood including endometrial, breast, ovarian, prostate, liver, gallbladder, kidney, and colon cancers.

Addressing childhood obesity requires a multidisciplinary approach with collective inputs of paediatricians, nutritionists, physical training instructors, psychologists etc. “Motivation of the child and family or motivational counseling is the key in intervention which if often very intensive,” remarks the Professor. Following the initial assessment involving physical markers and other necessary medical tests, the psychological assessment involving the child and his/her family would follow. “Family history of obesity, family perception and understanding of the problem and motivation to achieve a healthy weight is important in this process,” she notes. Regular monitoring of children and motivational therapy sessions help keep children and their families on track, she says.

The ‘Nutri-Fit Programme’ at the University Hospital of the Kotelawala Defence University manages overweight and obese children. Conducted through the Paediatric Clinic of the hospital, the programme emphasizes on becoming healthier and more fit rather than losing weight. “Weight loss inevitably happens as a result of this approach,” explains the professor who goes on to note that this facility is extended to healthy cooking demonstrations for children, exercise and yoga sessions.

Obese children need to be empowered to overcome psychological trauma the condition entails, remarks the Consultant. Destigmatizing obesity, motivational counseling, removing the guilt stigma, making them partners in achieving the target, emphasizing health rather than obesity, identifying their strengths and encouraging them and early involvement of a clinical psychologist in addressing these issues are among the tools of empowerment. Severe cases of obesity may need certain medications.



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Hilton Colombo presents A Middle Eastern Flair

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Hilton Colombo invited guests on a gastronomic journey through the heart of the Middle East with an exclusive culinary festival from March 1 to 31, 2025. Spearheaded by Executive Chef Chamlie Waidyaratne and his team, the festival showcased an array of authentic regional flavors, promising an unforgettable dining experience said a press release.

 The grand opening of the festival was held recently and the event commenced with a religious choral performance by the Muslim Choral Ensemble of Sri Lanka, setting the tone for the evening. The grand opening of the festival was attended by esteemed dignitaries, including . Andrés Marcelo González Garrido – Ambassador of the Republic of Cuba to Sri Lanka, . Badli Hisham Adam – High Commissioner of Malaysia to Sri Lanka, H.E. Levan S. Dzhagaryan – Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Sri Lanka, H.E  Semih Lütfü Turgut – Ambassador of Türkiye to Sri Lanka, diplomats of the High Commission of Canada, Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany, and the Embassy of Romania in Sri Lanka and the Maldives. The distinguished guests were warmly welcomed by Manesh Fernando, Area General Manager for Hilton Sri Lanka and General Manager of Hilton Colombo.

During the event,  uests can indulge in this exceptional dining experience at Rs. 9,388 per person from Sunday to Thursday, while the weekend rate (Friday and Saturday) is Rs. 9,888 per person.

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Iftar at ITC Ratnadipa

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Iftar buffet at the Indian Ocean Pavilion

A memorable iftar enhanced by exceptional culinary offerings in Colombo says a press release.The release said as twilight descends, experience a traditional Ramadan at ITC Ratnadipa, featuring a selection of iftar offerings that harmonize tradition with sophistication.

Share a memorable iftar this Ramadan with family, friends or colleagues here in the jewel in Colombo’s skyline from the 1st March onwards.

The release said break your fast by tucking into mezze, mixed grills, authentic dishes and Middle Eastern cuisine complemented by traditional beverages at the Indian Ocean Pavilion. This dining experience elevates traditional recipes while preserving its authentic roots, executed by culinary wizards at the all-day-dining (buffet) restaurant located on Level 3. The iftar buffet is priced at Rs. 6,300 ++ per person and happens daily from 6.15 pm – 9.00 pm onwards.

Gather at the Peshawri for a flavour packed iftar, with dishes from the North-West frontier. Served in a warm, welcoming space that captures the spirit of togetherness, Peshawri features a combination of breads and meats together with vegetarian options for your whole family. The atmosphere is serene while you enjoy your meal priced at Rs. 7,000++ per person.

The hotel will also offer a take-away service of mouthwatering biriyanis during the month of Ramadan. Relish in authentic tastes from timeless recipes, all in the comfort of your home, with orders placed 04 hours in advance. The Biryani sawans serve 06 adults comfortably and is priced at Rs. 13,400++ (Chicken biryani) and Rs. 22,323++ (Mutton biriyani).

ITC Ratnadipa also invites you to host iftar gatherings at the beautiful Sangam Ballroom with a minimum guest count of up to 100 people. A beautiful occasion, one that everyone is welcome as you dig into feast of Arabic and international favourites. Celebrate the traditions of the holy month with a curated menu at Sangam priced at Rs. 8,186++ per person applicable for all Corporate iftars. Prayer facilities will be provided.

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Master English communication with sabrina

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Sabrina Zavahir, the Founder of Verbalize Speaker-Hub, is a trailblazer in enhancing communication skills, both for corporate employees and job seekers, through her innovative approach in setting up a communication hub

To empower young professionals and career seekers to enhance their soft skills to succeed in today’s competitive job market Verbalize speaker- Hub was launched to empower young professionals .

Considering this vacuum in the corporate sector Verbalize Speaker Hub, was founded in view of taking into account on how Communication in Effective English is one of the most important levers of management that an organization can implement for the formation of teams and achieving valuable performance.

Drawing from her extensive media exposure, lecturing experience, Journalism and corporate work background, she created a customised programme aimed at advancing both written and spoken communication. This initiative is designed to help individuals sharpen their language skills, enabling them to thrive in professional environments or secure job opportunities. By tailoring her programme to meet specific needs, Sabrina ensures that participants receive targeted guidance, enhancing their ability to express ideas transparently and effectively. Her unique combination of expertise in media, education, and business gives her an edge in delivering high-quality training that addresses real-world communication challenges. This programme continues to empower individuals, making Sabrina Zavahir a key figure in fostering better communication for career success.

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