By: Tiana Cole | HGP Nightly News |
The Ministry’s Food Policy Division hosted the launch and is part of a broader effort to reduce the prevalence of lifestyle-related illnesses through public nutrition education.
Alarming Health Trends
Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony highlighted that the country continues to see a significant rise in chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.
“We probably have maybe about 30,000 persons coming to our institutions for diabetes,”
Dr. Anthony revealed.
He noted that while diagnosing and treating patients is essential, uncontrolled diabetes inevitably leads to severe complications.
These include:
- Kidney disease
- Diabetic eye damage leading to blindness
- Foot ulcers
- Increased need for dialysis
“A lot of the patients that we have on dialysis now are patients who probably have diabetes,”
he said.
Healthy Eating as Prevention
Minister Anthony emphasized that many chronic illnesses can be prevented or better managed through a proper diet.
“A plant-based diet is one of the best ways to get our nutrients… it’s filling, and it’s nutritious.”
He stressed that unhealthy eating patterns, especially the overconsumption of ultra-processed foods, are fueling the spike in NCDs.
The recipe book aims to:
- Encourage balanced meals
- Promote the use of fresh and colorful fruits and vegetables
- Improve portion control awareness
- Reduce dependence on sugary and processed foods
“We have to start managing our portion sizes… and make sure we’re not consuming too much of these ultra-processed foods because they are harmful,”
Dr. Anthony added.
Encouraging Healthier Choices
The Health Minister also urged citizens to be more mindful of beverages, choosing options that align with healthier dietary habits.
The Ministry hopes the new recipe book will empower households across Guyana to make smarter, more colorful choices that strengthen their overall well-being.
