Diet and lifestyle changes as preventive cost-effective strategies of interventions for chronic diseases

Abstract

The increase in the occurrence of nutrition related chronic diseases is alarming. It was seen that genetic, 
environmental, and behavioural factors are primary determinants of chronic diseases such as coronary artery 
disease, ischemic stroke, diabetes and some specific cancers. Thus, it was therefore concluded that avoiding 
smoking; pursuing physical activity; consuming healthy types of fats; eating plenty of fruits and vegetables; replacing 
refined grains with whole grains; limiting sugar intake; limiting excessive calories and limiting sodium intake are 
dietary and lifestyle factors that could serve as interventions for chronic diseases. It was therefore recommended that 
a comprehensive national and local plans that would involve health care providers, worksites, schools, media, urban 
planners, all levels of food production, processing and preparation and governments should be developed to take 
advantage of every opportunity to encourage and promote healthy eating and active living.