Camille John, Community Nutritionist at the Marriaqua Health District, is urging parents to foster healthy eating habits in their children from an early age.

John emphasized the importance of instilling these habits early to prevent future health issues.

The nutritionist shared her insights during the launch of a new backyard farm at the Marriaqua Government School and Marriaqua Early Childhood Centre.

This initiative is part of the Food Security Project, a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment, the Zero Hunger Trust Fund, and the Ministry of Agriculture.

John highlighted the benefits of involving children in growing their own food, suggesting it would create a healthier environment where children are more likely to consume healthy, locally grown produce.

The nutritionist expressed concern over the increasing prevalence of chronic non-communicable diseases among young people, including diabetes and various cancers.

She noted a worrying trend, stating, “Before we say diabetes and high blood pressure were old people diseases but at the moment with are seeing cases at the ages of two and four.”