EU urged to combat child obesity ‘tobacco-style’

Report of a discussion on family and childhood nutrition sponsored by the Brussels think-tank Friends of Europe held in Brussels, 1 December 2011.

Changing behaviour is not easy, but the research is emerging on what interventions are effective at improving nutrition, promoting physical activity and encouraging less sedentary time in families. The Friends of Europe roundtable reviewed the evidence base and discussed how to translate the research recommendations into practice.

John Blundell, Professor of Biopsychology at the University of Leeds said, 'Unhealthy behaviour can be changed and sustainable healthier habits established'. Proposed solutions include recommendations for policy-makers, suggestions for programme design and help for hard pressed parents.