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AL AAN TV health specialists have put together extensive yet simple methods to assist viewers to accomplish a healthier lifestyle.
The broadcaster aired a survey conducted by market research company YouGov Siraj, through a segment called Nabd Al Arab, covering 19 countries on Arab nationals living all over the Middle East and North Africa.
The survey assessed eating habits and lifestyle. Some of the results showed a shift in people's preferences and attitudes while others raise a serious concern about the future health of the Arab people if they continue to maintain the same lifestyles.
Obesity can be attributed to the high consumption of junk food and fat saturated meals, drinking large volumes of fizzy drinks, minimal workouts, emotional eating and lack of outdoor activities.
The survey showed a considerable number of obese people claim to be comfortable in their skin and consider shopping their only difficulty. However, the majority of respondents agree that obesity causes a loss of confidence, marital problems and increased celibacy.
The survey highlighted the large number of people who currently diet (28 per cent of women across the region) and those who tried to diet in the past but have now given up (19 per cent of respondents from the GCC).
All the above conditions are preventable, say experts, and are the result of unhealthy practices. "With higher levels of domestic and job stress and an increased cost of health care, it is very important to tackle these issues before they aggravate and turn into dangerous and irreversible medical conditions," an Al Aan TV spokesman said.
Its experts suggest:
Maintain a proper diet, reduce the amount of food you eat outside and rely on home cooked healthy meals.
Reduce your intake of caffeine and fizzy drinks and replace it with water and fresh juices.
Workout at least 3 times per week.
Engage in outdoor activities.
Practice Yoga and meditation.
Pamper yourself in relaxing massages.
Take a five minute break every hour you spend at your desk to rotate your neck and stretch your back and legs.
Set goals for yourself and reward yourself upon accomplishment of each level to remain motivated.
Surround yourself with active people and try to engage friends and family in your activities and workout sessions.
Have fun and try to laugh often. Laughter is the best medicine.
Al Aan is a pan-Arab satellite broadcaster based in Dubai Media City, available free-to-air on Arabsat or Nilesat, offering original and innovative infotainment programmess.
