14 percent of Zambian women are overweight, obese with under nourished children

The National Food and Nutrition Commission has warned of rising cases of overweight and obesity among Zambian women.

Acting Commission Director Musonda Mofu revealed that a recent study undertaken by the Commission showed that about 10-14 percent of Zambian women are overweight and obese.

Mr Mofu said the situation is worrying because Zambia does not have capacity to manage consequences of obesity among its population.

“As a nation, we have been battling with under nutrition especially for children under the age of five. The emerging cases of obesity especially among the women folk is worrying because as a nation we don’t have capacity to manage the health and economic risks that come with obesity,” Mr Musonda said.

He added, “What is important to note is that these same women who are becoming over weight have children who are under nourished.

So they are over feeding themselves but they are not providing adequate nutrition to their children.”
Mr Mofu blamed the rise in cases of overweight and obesity to poor eating habits among women.

“What we are seeing is a new trend where women are consuming more alcohol and fast foods. Most of this alcohol has some Sugar and that adds to the fatty acids in the body which contributes to obesity,” he said.

Mr Mofu has since appealed to Zambian women to adopt healthier lifestyles and eating more traditional meals that are low on fat.

Radio Mano