Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU), Health Sciences Faculty, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics Chair Asst. Prof. Dr. Gözde Okburan released a statement on 16 October – World Food Day. The said statement reads as follows:
“What is World Food Day?”
16th of October has been observed as the ‘World Food Day’ to commemorate the founding date of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), 16 October 1945. Various events are annually organized on the 16th of October to promote global awareness and action for those who suffer from hunger or mall-nutrition in many countries, and to highlight the need to ensure food security and accessibility to healthy food for all. The ‘World Food Day’ is one of the most celebrated days on the United Nation’s calendar, with participation of over 150 countries.
“Significance of World Food Day”
Over 2.8 billion people in the world are unable to afford a healthy diet. Unhealthy diets are the leading cause of all forms of malnutrition – undernutrition, micronutrient deficiencies and obesity. Yet today, too many people suffer from hunger and are unable to afford healthy diets. More vulnerable people are often forced to rely on staple foods or less expensive foods that can be unhealthy, while others suffer from the unavailability of fresh or varied foods, lack the information they need to choose a healthy diet, or simply opt for convenience. Access to health food is the most fundamental need of humanity that must be fulfilled. However, there still is an ongoing fight against hunger. According to the data by FAO, in 2022, 783 million people are malnourished and suffer from hunger. In this regard, the ‘World Food Day’ events have a significant role in raising awareness on the importance of food. Therefore, as the Eastern Mediterranean University, Health Sciences Faculty, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, our goal is to organize an awareness event, being held for the first time at the Faculty, to promote access to healthy, sustainable, and affordable food for both our society and others.
“What is a Healthy Diet?”
A healthy diet consists of a variety of food groups, is balanced in terms of energy intake, meets nutritional needs, and minimizes the consumption of unhealthy foods. Agricultural food systems can and should provide healthy diets for all people, both now and in the future, to promote human and environmental well-being. However, this requires increased commitment, investment, and innovative strategies. ‘Food’ represents diversity, nutrition, affordability, and safety. We need more nutritious food options across farms, markets, and dining tables for everyone’s benefit. Following an unhealthy diet is a leading risk factor for non-communicable diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Poor dietary habits, which contribute to 1 in 5 deaths globally, also place a major financial burden on countries’ healthcare systems, costing an estimated $2 trillion annually.
In order to eat healthy:
- Increase your consumption of foods that are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and whole grains.
- Reduce your consumption of foods and beverages that are high in refined sugar, saturated fats and salt.
- Promote local biodiversity by cutting back on packaged and ready-made foods, and choosing a more varied and traditional diet.
- Familiarize yourself with local, seasonal foods, their nutritional benefits, and the best ways to prepare them.
- Although personal needs differ, it’s recommended to drink 2-3 liters of fluids daily.
- Stay away from alcoholic drinks and avoid smoking.
- Boost your physical activity level (target 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week).
We celebrate 16 October – ‘World Food Day’, hoping for a future where all humanity can enjoy sufficient and balanced nutrition, and a world free of hunger.”
