More children are obese than underweight, says Unicef

According to a new report by Unicef, more children worldwide are now obese than underweight. This alarming trend is attributed to the replacement of traditional, healthy diets with ultra-processed foods that are often high in sugar and additives. The report highlights that the global shift towards unhealthy eating habits has led to a significant increase in childhood obesity, posing a major public health concern. This issue is not limited to high-income countries but is also prevalent in low- and middle-income nations, where the availability of affordable, nutrient-rich foods has diminished. Unicef calls for urgent action to address this crisis, emphasizing the need for policy interventions that promote access to and consumption of wholesome, unprocessed foods. The report underscores the importance of implementing strategies that support healthy eating habits and physical activity among children to combat the growing prevalence of obesity and its associated health risks.