Work

Tackling the Consumption of High Sugar Products among Children and Adolescents in the Pacific Islands: Implications for Future Research

Year: 2018

Type: article

Abstract: The Pacific Islands are experiencing an obesity epidemic with a rate of overweight and obesity as high as 80% among adults in some Pacific Island nations. Children and adolescents in the region are also affected by overweight and obesity, which is alarming due to the increased likelihood of remaining overweight as an adult. Research supports an association between poor diet and an increased risk of obesity and development of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Excess consumption of free sugars is associated with poorer overall diet quality and increased risk of weight gain, chronic inflammation and dental caries. Traditional diets in the Pacific Islands are being supplemented with processed, high-sugar foods and beverages; thus, there is a clear need for effective interventions promoting positive dietary behaviors in the region. School and community based interventions offer an opportunity to promote positive behavior change among children and adolescents. This review aims to evaluate interventions targeting the consumption of high-sugar products in this population in the Pacific Islands.

Source: Healthcare

DOI: 10.3390/healthcare6030081

Authors: Katharine Aldwell, Corinne Caillaud, Olivier Galy, Stéphane Frayon, Margaret Allman-Farinelli

Institutions: The University of Sydney, University of New Caledonia, Laboratoire interdisciplinaire de recherche en éducation, Institut national supérieur du professorat et de l'éducation de la Nouvelle-Calédonie

Language: English

Topic: Obesity, Physical Activity, Diet

Subfield: Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,258