THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Awareness programs in schools to reduce junk food habits in children, campaign to approach fast food with caution, distribution of millet through ration shops and Supplyco distribution centres. The government is preparing an action plan to save the new generation from falling sick due to changed eating habits. The action plan is prepared jointly by the food, health and agriculture departments.

The action plan will include awareness about the harmful aspects of vegetables with pesticides, strict checks at the borders to prevent their arrival, campaigns about millets, inspections of hotels and shops selling junk food, and doubling vegetable cultivation locally. The first step will be the awareness about the negative aspects of junk food. The health department will create awareness about unhealthy eating habits.

Natural foods like vegetables, whole grains, and fruits are low in calories and rich in nutrients. Children will also be educated to eat a balanced diet at home. Two years ago, the food and health departments had made preliminary plans to implement the scheme but did not go ahead.

Junk food side effects

Heart disease, stroke, obesity, depression, dental and skin problems, high blood pressure, constipation, excessive anxiety, memory loss, kidney disease, liver inflammation.

"Good eating habits should be developed in children. Children should not be given junk food. Fruits and vegetables should be eaten regularly.

- Dr. Elizabeth, Pediatrician

"The main cause of cancer and kidney diseases is the change in food and drinking habits.

-K Pradeep Kumar, Assistant Professor

Govt. Homeo Medicine. College, Iranimuttom