Young people tune out from junk food

(CNS): Young people who have been participanting in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme will be drinking more water, avoiding junk food and eating less pastries and sweets. The youngsters pledged to ‘love their bodies’ after observing Caribbean Wellness Day on Saturday,8  September marked by an early-morning beach hike. The event which also served as the launch of the local youth group’s 2012 – 2013 Award year. The ‘Dukers’ also reviewed hand-outs which that outlined health issues such as smoking, drugs, alcohol, healthy eating and vitamins.

‘Love That Body’ was the theme of the health and fitness day event. Issues discussed included nutrition, physical activity, mental health, and substance abuse, and environmental health. As physical recreation is a primary activity component of The Duke of Edinburgh’s programme, the Caribbean Award Scheme Sub-Regional Council (CASC) encouraged all members to integrate Caribbean Wellness Day as a special event.

Healthy eating and physical activity is being promoted throughout the region as the best prevention for heart disease, Type II diabetes, strokes, childhood obesity, high cholesterol or high blood pressure.  Especially so, as more young people are falling victim to these diseases – which are largely lifestyle related.

Young people from the ages of 14 to 25 are invited to join The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.  For further information, please contact Katherine Jackson at 925 5291 or email deacayman68@yahoo.com.