My Health Conference Highlights Importance Of Physical Activity And Nutrition For Sustainable Health

The 10th edition of the 'My Health' conference began under the patronage of H.H. Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs (SCFA). The event, held at the University of Sharjah, features over 36 experts discussing physical and mental health, sports, and nutrition through 22 keynotes, panel discussions, workshops, and talks over two days.

During the opening session, speakers highlighted the importance of maintaining good physical and mental health for a balanced lifestyle. They emphasised sufficient sleep and regular exercise as essential components. A diet rich in healthy, home-cooked meals was recommended to delay aging and avoid ready-made foods, especially for children.

Iman Rashid Saif, Director of the Health Promotion Department at SCFA, noted that the conference aligns with H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi's vision. She stated: "Over the past decade, the conference has been instrumental in raising awareness and shaping health policies at both local and international levels." The theme ‘Health and Wellbeing’ was chosen to highlight that true happiness is linked to good health.

Dr. Ibtihal Fadhil expressed gratitude to Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher for supporting public health initiatives. She said: "Since its establishment in 2017, the Regional NCD Alliance has collaborated with health and civil society organisations across 22 countries in our region to promote investment in health." Dr. Fadhil acknowledged ongoing challenges but remained hopeful about future achievements in building health-conscious communities.

The conference opened with a panel discussion titled ‘From Childhood to Wellbeing: The Impact of Fast Food Culture and Secrets to Longevity.’ Dr. Ahmed Mohammad Abdul Malik from Kuwait ranked sleep third after physical activity and nutrition for overall health. He warned against media-driven reliance on ready-made meals targeting children.

Dr. Abdul Malik advised establishing healthy eating habits at home by limiting fast food consumption to once a week. He stressed conscious shopping practices that reduce harmful foods like fast food and soft drinks while increasing fruits and vegetables intake. Parents were urged to model healthy eating habits for their children.

Promoting Active Lifestyles

Prof. Hashem Adnan Al Kilani from the University of Jordan emphasised seven to eight hours of sleep alongside regular exercise for maintaining mental and physical well-being. He suggested three ten-minute workout sessions daily instead of one long session to sustain energy levels throughout the day.

Addressing stress management, Prof. Al Kilani noted that high cortisol levels negatively affect both body and mind. Regular exercise combined with relaxation techniques can mitigate these effects. He cautioned against smoking while advocating healthier lifestyle choices to reduce mortality risks.

The opening ceremony concluded with Sheikh Mohammed bin Humaid Al Qasimi honouring partners and sponsors present at this milestone event alongside Iman Rashid Saif.

With inputs from WAM