RIYADH, 16 March 2003 — Changes in lifestyle that come with modernization include changes in diet, and the dietary habits of the Saudi population have changed a great deal in the past 20 years especially. The fast food culture in particular has increased the consumption of unhealthy food, which in turn has led to an onslaught of ailments — mainly obesity, diabetes and heart disease.
Dr. Najeeb Azam, an assistant professor and consultant cardiologist at King Saud University Hospital, told Arab News that obesity is an “appalling” problem in Saudi Arabia. “As much as 90 percent of those who are obese suffer from type-2 diabetes, and 50 percent of type-2 diabetics will die of cardiovascular diseases. The effects of obesity can multiply,” he said.
The overriding problem is the large consumption of saturated fats, which form a major component of fast food. A diet rich in saturated fats can lead to obesity and high cholesterol, both of which are major risk factors for heart disease and, if left unchecked, may eventually lead to a heart attack.
Dr. Mansour Al-Nozha, president of the Saudi Heart Association and director of King Fahd Heart Center, also confirmed to Arab News that obesity is a growing concern especially among the young, who are also the major consumers of fast food.
“Adolescents are eating a lot of fast food,” said Dr. Nozha, adding that this increase in fast food consumption among the young coupled with a lack of exercise among the older population has led to “a prevalence of obesity in Saudi Arabia.”
According to Dr. Azam, there are many Saudis still in their 20s who are having to be treated for heart problems.
High cholesterol is more common in young people and especially in girls, he said. He added that a high intake of cholesterol, especially LDL or “bad” cholesterol, increases the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD).
Fast food also contains large amounts of salt and sugar, which when taken in excess can lead to high blood pressure and diabetes, both of which are risk factors for CHD.
Dr. Azam said that in the fast food category there is also a large consumption of sweets and desserts very high in calories.
Another disadvantage of fast food, he said, is that it is “extra food,” which people may consume just for pleasure.
“If you have easy access to ready-made food, chances are that you will eat more than what is necessary, and the food you will be eating will not be healthy either.”
Health problems, such as obesity and CHD, are further compounded by a lack of regular exercise among much of the population. The hot climate in the Kingdom also fosters sedentary lifestyles.
Arab News spoke to several people about their fast food consumption and its effect on health. The majority of those interviewed said they went out for dinner at a fast food restaurant at least twice a week. Most of them also said they were aware that fast food was not healthy.
“The food is delicious, although they may not be good for health,” said M. Basheer Ahmad.
Dr. Sayed S. El-Esawy said that sometimes people turn to fast food because they are anxious for a change of ordinary food habits.
“Fast food is not healthy,” said Dr. Randa Ratrout. “But my children like to have it if we are outside the home.”
Some people, especially college students or those with busy schedules, said they knew fast food was unhealthy but felt they had no other choice.
On the other hand, many of those who ate out less frequently also preferred healthier food choices, like fish. Fast food, they agree, must not take the entire blame for the declining health of the population. People themselves must act responsibly and make healthy choices.
Dr. Azam said that there was a lack of awareness and proper information regarding food and diet here in the Kingdom. Many people, he said, did not realize that dates, consumed in large numbers in the Kingdom, are loaded with calories and carbohydrates, which when taken in large amounts can be harmful to the body.
Dr. Al-Nozha also emphasized the need for education. When asked about the benefits of informative food labels, such as the “Nutrition Facts” label required by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on most US food products, he said that similar regulations here in the Kingdom may not be far off.
“The Council of Ministers chaired by King Fahd recently approved the establishment of an agency similar to the FDA,” Dr. Nozha told Arab News. “This new establishment will have an important role to play in the labeling of food items.”
Dr. Azam placed special emphasis on educating women about heart disease and its risk factors, as women are still largely in charge of preparing family meals.
So awareness needs to start at home.
However, the recent fast food culture seems to act as a double sword. Not only does it contribute to declining health; it also erodes the very basis of the institution where such awareness and instruction would be found.
Eating together as a family at home has more than one benefit, said Dr. Azam. In addition to upholding family values, it is also a good opportunity to pass on good eating habits to other family members.
Unfortunately, as life becomes increasingly fast-paced and more people flock to the nearest fast food chain for a quick meal, family unity is sacrificed. Consequently, the concept of a “family meal,” with the whole family gathered around the dinner table is increasingly becoming a thing of the past.
