Dubai Health Authority's smart clinic discusses the importance of nutrition ahead of the 2nd Dubai Nutrition Conference.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, November 17, 2016:  Dubai Health Authority’s smart clinic discussed today the importance of nutrition for overall health and well-being ahead of the 2nd Dubai Nutrition Conference.

The conference will take place from 17 to 19 November at the InterContinental hotel in Dubai. 

Information was disseminated via the Authority’s Twitter page (@DHA_Dubai), Instagram and through periscope.

Afra Bin Katta, head of clinical nutrition department at Rashid Hospital, said
 “ Our message to the community is that instead of focusing on crash-diets which can cause more harm than good, it is important to focus on eating healthy foods and understanding where the calories come from. While calories of two different foods may be the same, the source should be natural rather than processed for the body to accept it well. Therefore, what we eat is as if not more important than the caloric value. It is also important to follow portion control.”

Also advised against skipping any type of food group particularly carbohydrates which are vital to good health. “Reap the health benefits of good carbs by choosing carbohydrates full of fiber. These are carbs that get absorbed slowly into our systems and they do not cause spikes in blood sugar levels. Examples: whole grains like brown rice, oats; vegetables like sweet potato, fruits, and legumes.”

However, minimize refined sugars. “Refined sugars not only result in weight gain but also effect our energy levels, metabolism and insulin sensitivity. So we should minimize consuming them.”

She said diseases associated with obesity include type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, stroke, gallbladder disease, osteoarthritis, sleep apnea, respiratory problems, and certain cancers, including breast cancer in women.

Fatima Abdulla Al Shuwihi, head of clinical nutrition at Latifa Hospital, that people should opt for full-fat options instead of low-fat foods. “So-called low-fat and fat-free diet foods are often packed with sugar, salt, and chemical-laden additives. It’s better to opt for full-fat options and exercise portion control. In fact, latest studies highlight the importance of healthy fats such as avocado, walnuts, coconut oil, ghee etc. which should be consumed.”

“ At the end of the day, our health is precious, it’s a source of happiness and therefore we need to take time out of our busy lives to focus on nutrition and fitness.”