Reduce the sugars and the fats, advise experts

Abu Dhabi - Modernised lifestyle often causes stress, weight-gain and health issues leading to illnesses common in the UAE, including diabetes, heart attacks and cancer.

We are living in a fast-paced, up-beat society, where our daily routine is becoming more about being 'on the go,' and less about serenity, even when it comes to the food we eat. And it is no secret that life for residents in the capital is becoming more dynamic and on the go.
Whether it's working and sending e-mails from our smart-phones while being driven around, or taking a powernap because we worked late at night, or even grabbing a quick take-out to fill us up for the rest of our busy day, we are currently living in a society where we want things done and we want them done fast.
Unfortunately, this modernised, lifestyle does take a toll on one's health. It often causes stress, weight-gain and health issues leading to illnesses common in the UAE, including diabetes, heart attacks and cancer.
During an interview with Khaleej Times, Mazen Al Dahmani, General-Manager from Imperial College London Diabetes Centre, noted that although a modern and Westernised life can damage the health of an individual at certain levels, it is nonetheless crucial to understand that illnesses can be prevented, simply by making small, yet significant changes to one's diet.
"I would like to clear a common misconception that Western food or a Western lifestyle is bad for you. This is not true," he said.
"As unhealthy food and fast food were introduced by the West, there were also healthy foods that were introduced, as well as exercise in various forms and activities, whether it's individual activities, or sport activities," he added.
Al Dahmani pointed out that one doesn't necessarily have to sacrifice the food he enjoys and loves most, be it a burger or a pizza, as it is all about making small and significant changes to the 'unhealthy' dish itself.
"It's all about reducing the sugars and the fats, those are extremely bad for you, but we can't really say that across the board for everyone, because it's relative to different people," he said.
"For instance, if you like eating burgers, you can opt for a burger that is created in a healthy way, changing the bread from white flour to multigrain, for example. So there are various ways of eating Western food in a healthier way," he added.
Al Dahmani highlighted that avoiding severe illnesses like diabetes, can be done, simply by using the most traditional methods, which are diet and exercise. "It is about finding the right balance between a healthy diet and continuous exercise on a daily basis, as well as maintaining a good body weight; these are the three pillars of maintaining a healthy lifestyle."
jasmine@khaleejtimes.com

• Abu Dhabi