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Rome/ Geneva (pte047/23.04.2003/16:46) - The World Health Organization (WHO) http://www.who.int and the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) http://www.fao.org presented an independent report today on diet, nutrition and the prevention of chronic disease.
The report, which took two years to complete, is to lay the foundation for a worldwide strategy to fight against the steady increase of chronic illness. It outlines the most recent scientific research on the connection between eating habits, foods, physical activity and various chronic diseases. The report mainly focused on heart and dental illness, obesity, certain types of cancer, diabetes and osteoporosis.
"These illnesses are no longer just a problem in rich countries," said WHO general director Gro Harlem Brundtland. According to the WHO, even moderate changes in eating habits and physical activity can lower the risk of chronic illness. A total of 30 independent experts participated in the report and another 30 researchers tested the results presented.
The experts also offered specific dietary recommendations. These include limiting the consumption of fat to no more than 15 to 30 per cent per day, of which only ten per cent are saturated fats. Carbohydrates should make up 55 to 75 per cent of the ideal diet, with sugar at less than 10 per cent, and one should not consume more than five grams of salt a day. Recommended protein intake is between ten and 15 per cent. The WHO and FAO also advise at least one hour of physical activity per day to maintain weight.
Next month Brundtland will be meeting with representatives of the food and beverage industry - considered important partners in the achievement of long term goals. Experts from the study also plan to meet with consumer organisations. The WHO and FAO will present their complete worldwide strategy against chronic illnesses in 2004.
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