Nourish to Flourish - The Power of Healthy Eating in Youth
Healthy Eating for Young People
In May 2024, Diabetes UK published a report during Type 2 Diabetes Prevention Week titled Reverse the Trend – Reducing Type 2 Diabetes in Young People, which highlighted a concerning 40% rise in type 2 diabetes diagnoses among younger people in the UK between 2016-17 and 2022-23. According to the report, nearly 168,000 people under the age of 40 are now living with type 2 diabetes, marking an increase of over 47,000 cases since 2016-17.
Diabetes UK
In today’s fast-paced world, young people face numerous challenges when it comes to maintaining a healthy diet. With the rise of processed foods, sugary snacks, and the pressures of school, work, and social activities, it’s easy for them to fall into unhealthy eating habits. However, adopting a balanced and nutritious diet is crucial for physical and mental well-being during these formative years. Consuming a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help boost energy, improve concentration, and support long-term health. Encouraging young people to make mindful food choices and develop positive eating habits can lay the foundation for a healthier future and help them navigate the pressures of modern life.
The Importance of Healthy Eating and Long-Term Effects of Unhealthy Eating on Diabetes
The importance of young people eating healthy cannot be overstated, especially when considering the long-term effects of unhealthy eating on their future health. A nutritious diet is critical during childhood and adolescence, as these are key years for growth, development, and building healthy habits that can last a lifetime. Consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins provides the essential nutrients needed for optimal physical and mental development, boosts energy levels, and improves overall well-being.
On the other hand, poor eating habits in youth such as regularly consuming high amounts of sugary foods, unhealthy fats, and processed snacks—can significantly increase the risk of developing chronic conditions later in life, particularly type 2 diabetes. Unhealthy eating leads to excessive calorie intake, poor blood sugar control, and weight gain, all of which contribute to insulin resistance, a key factor in the development of diabetes. When young people eat a diet high in refined sugars and low in fibre, they are more likely to experience fluctuations in blood sugar levels, putting extra stress on the pancreas and impairing its ability to regulate glucose.
Over time, this can result in the development of type 2 diabetes, a condition that was once considered primarily an adult disease but is now increasingly affecting younger populations. The consequences of diabetes are far-reaching, including a higher risk of heart disease, kidney failure, vision problems, and nerve damage. Therefore, adopting healthy eating habits early on is not only essential for immediate health benefits but also for reducing the risk of serious health issues, like diabetes, in the future. Encouraging young people to make nutritious food choices now can have a lasting impact on their long-term health and well-being.
Mary Seacole Housing Association’s Youth Voices Podcast on Healthy lifestyles
Mary Seacole Housing Association’s Youth Voices Podcast has become an important platform for young people to share their thoughts, ideas, and experiences on various topics that matter to them. Recently, the youth group invited a local doctor Dr Kunal Kothari and Programme Co-ordinator for Luton Supporting You Deniece Dobson, to join them for a special episode focused on healthy lifestyles for young people. During the discussion, the doctor explained the importance of maintaining a balanced diet, highlighting how good nutrition supports growth, energy, and mental well-being. They also delved into the long-term effects of poor eating habits, stressing the risks of developing conditions like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and other health issues. By hosting this insightful conversation, the Youth Voices Podcast aims to raise awareness among listeners about the significant role food choices play in shaping their future health and answer some of the important questions that the young people around Luton wanted to ask the two guest speakers. The collaboration with Deniece Dobson and Dr Kunal Kothari serves as an empowering resource for the community, encouraging people to make informed decisions and fostering a commitment to healthier lifestyles.
Mary Seacole Housing Association’s Youth Voices Podcast on Healthy lifestyles
Mary Seacole Housing Association’s Youth Voices Podcast has become an important platform for young people to share their thoughts, ideas, and experiences on various topics that matter to them. Recently, the youth group invited a local doctor Dr Kunal Kothari and Programme Co-ordinator for Luton Supporting You Deniece Dobson, to join them for a special episode focused on healthy lifestyles for young people. During the discussion, the doctor explained the importance of maintaining a balanced diet, highlighting how good nutrition supports growth, energy, and mental well-being. They also delved into the long-term effects of poor eating habits, stressing the risks of developing conditions like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and other health issues. By hosting this insightful conversation, the Youth Voices Podcast aims to raise awareness among listeners about the significant role food choices play in shaping their future health and answer some of the important questions that the young people around Luton wanted to ask the two guest speakers. The collaboration with Deniece Dobson and Dr Kunal Kothari serves as an empowering resource for the community, encouraging people to make informed decisions and fostering a commitment to healthier lifestyles.
Coming up next in February…
Island Fuel: A Journey to Better Health Through Caribbean Cuisine
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Let’s Celebrate Health!
The women at ESOL College reminded us that healthy living doesn’t have to feel restrictive. It’s about celebrating the foods we love, with a few mindful tweaks that honour both our heritage and our health.
Are you ready to spice things up? Start with small changes, and explore recipes and tips designed just for you. Together, we can beat diabetes—one delicious meal at a time.
Explore more recipes and inspiration in our online recipe book below
