Musings on the governments new obesity strategy

Hala El-Shafie, Psychology of Eating Expert, Registered Dietitian and Founder of Nutrition Rocks has some thoughts on the government’s new strategy to tackle obesity.

It’s been an interesting week with the government releasing their new strategy for obesity, particularly as it seems there has been little consideration around tackling the root cause of obesity which we know is incredibly complex nor does it seem to offer solutions to address the link between inequalities in health, poverty and obesity.

Whilst many will welcome the advertising ban on “junk foods” in line with the 9pm watershed and an opportunity to consider choices with the introduction of calories at point of purchase (this isn’t a positive move for all and extremely triggering and anxiety-inducing for those struggling with eating disorders)

There also seems to have been a huge lapse in thought when the government’s strategy has simultaneously been launched at the same time the very same government have launched the “eat out to help out” scheme which offers a 50% discount when eating at certain restaurants ... many fast-food chains have opted to be included in this! Which seems to fly in the face of everything the government are trying to do and seems a complete contradiction!

Whilst elements of the strategy are evidence-based, there is still too much of a blame culture, a greater risk of weight stigma and a push towards personal responsibility on individuals to make consistent choices to support health but privilege plays a huge part in this and one thing the new strategy doesn’t centre around is people’s abilities to be able to make affordable choices.

For many the “healthy option” just isn’t an option due to socioeconomic challenges - it also doesn’t take into consideration that in some cases some people may not even have access to a fridge or freezer which limits what fresh produce they can choose.

Rather it would have been helpful if healthier food choices were significantly more accessible or subsidised for those with lower incomes.

I’d like to see “buy one get one free ” offers on fruit and veg and subsidies on gyms and outdoor activities. I would also like to see more cook and teach sessions with education on food and nutrition available in schools as well as greater access to registered nutritionists and dietitians for the general public... something that seems to have been completely missed off the government’s strategy!

Find the government’s policy paper, “Tackling Obesity, government strategy” here.

Hala El-Shafie, Psychology of Eating Expert and Registered Dietitian