tags - Sinar Daily

Photo for illustration purposes only.

SCROLL through social media today and one might think modern wellness comes in capsule form. Collagen powders, magnesium gummies, probiotics, hormone-balancing drinks and “cortisol support” supplements now occupy the shelves, handbags, and bedside tables of many women. Photo for illustrative purposes only - Pixabay

Malaysia’s aspiration to become a high-income nation faces growing concern as more than half of its adult population is overweight or obese, while some children continue to suffer from stunted growth due to poor nutrition.

THE rising use of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs in Malaysia, including semaglutide (Ozempic) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro), has highlighted gaps between regulation and enforcement, with authorities continuing to uncover illegal online sales and social-media promotions.

Stunting does not only occur after birth, but often begins before a child is born, with data from the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2022 showing that 39.4 per cent of pregnant women were anaemic, indicating nutritional deficiencies and a major risk for low birth weight and stunting in newborns. - Photo illustrated by Sinar Daily

Bariatric surgery is a proven medical treatment for severe obesity, yet it remains widely misunderstood as a mere cosmetic shortcut. Photo: Edited via Canva

Photo: Canva

Cats worldwide face a growing obesity problem, with studies showing about 50 per cent are overweight, raising concerns over diet, activity and long-term health. Photo: Edited via Canva

Childhood obesity is far from harmless. Photo for illustrative purposes only - Canva

Former deputy health minister Dr Lee Boon Chye stressed that food affordability and providing better nutrition education should be a priority in Malaysia’s fight against NCDs. Photo - 123rf