The President of the Society, Dr. Basem Abu Bakr, explained that these substances contain high calories (500 calories per 100 grams), most of which come from saturated fats and refined starches, and increase the incidence of obesity among students. This is what resulted from the health survey of school students regarding the prevalence of obesity, which negatively affects students' health in the present and future, as well as public health and society, and increases the risks of developing insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular health, high levels of bad cholesterol (LDL), and low levels of good cholesterol (HDL), which increases the risk of heart, brain, and liver function diseases.
He pointed out that harmful food products in general cause an increase in sodium salt content, which increases the risks of high blood pressure and affects kidney, brain, and bone health, and is primarily related to indigestion, increased acidity, irritation of the stomach lining, and loss of appetite for healthy foods.
Regarding students' mental and physical performance, Abu Bakr said that consuming these substances leads to a decline in academic and athletic performance, intelligence levels, and poor psychological state. He explained that after reviewing the nutritional content of harmful substances, including potato chips, by food authorities, it was found that they contain no protein, dietary fiber, vitamins, minerals, or antioxidants, but rather a high content of harmful substances and colorings. Scientifically, they are called (ultra-processed foods), and in many countries, they are called "delicious poison."
He added that the Society looks forward to expanding the ban on these substances to include items rich in saturated fats, sugars, energy drinks, and "Indomie," and introducing safe and healthy food items in school canteens, such as lupine, nuts, unsalted seeds, healthy biscuits, corn, dates, yogurt, "Shaneena" (laban drink), and other healthy foods at reasonable prices.
He pointed out the necessity of using school canteens for health guidance by placing interactive images about heart, brain, and bone health using artificial intelligence, and introducing educational material into the curriculum about the importance of integrated health investment for students to reduce their risks of non-communicable diseases in the present and future, and that laws should be issued to prevent the sale of harmful food products in grocery stores surrounding schools.
He confirmed the Society's readiness to hold accredited training courses for teachers, educational administrations, and students to become health ambassadors, as well as healthy cooking courses for students' mothers.
