Vocational School of Justice
HEALHTY EATING
As the school and work pace is increasing following a long holiday, eating out is becoming more appealing. And choices of beverages and meals at this point become very important. The experts especially warn about the negative effects of high-calorie, high-fat, fast-food on body, and point out the importance of maintaining a well-balanced diet for immune system.
Prof. Dr. Nazan Turhan, Head of IUE Department of Food Engineering, reported that food had a direct effect on body functions, and that healthy or unhealthy choices affected health issues such as mental functioning, energy, strength, body mass, etc. Prof. Dr. Turhan said that making healthy choices at fast-food restaurants, food courts, and even at school cafeterias is much easier than thought. “Most of the cafeterias or fast-food restaurants offer healthy and tasty choices like grilled chicken or salad. However, one should avoid big portions, and high-fat ingredients such as dressings and cheeses. Choosing a well-balanced diet, portion size, and choice of beverages is important when dining out. A healthy diet should include non-fat protein choices like fish, chicken, chick peas, beans, and fruits, vegetables, and grains. A whole-wheat bread sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and turkey meat is a much healthier choice than a cheeseburger,” said Turhan.
‘Parents should be role models in healthy eating’
Prof. Dr. Turhan suggested staying away from “empty calorie” beverages such as sodas, juices, energy drinks, and recommended eating healthy snacks such as fresh squeezed juices, milk with fruits, yoghurt with honey, sandwich, and healthy nuts as walnuts, almonds, and hazelnuts. Prof. Dr. Turhan said, “Children should be trained on healthy eating habits. Parents should be on agreement and firm about this. Encouraging your child to exercise regularly and turn that into a way of life is the biggest gift you can give them. Please remember that children take their parents as example. Therefore, you, too need to exercise and pave the way for them.”