Hundreds of residents on Friday turned up for the launch of Mombasa County Nutritional week at Tononoka Social Hall in Mvita Sub county.
The event which was organized by the County Department of Health in collaboration with partners, saw numerous women and participants enlightened on the best practices of scaling up nutrition at their homes and workplaces to promote healthy living and keep diseases at bay.
Through health talks and infographics, nutritionists and health providers shared knowledge and showcased samples of healthy, locally available balanced foods and best ways of cooking them to retain their nutrients.
Emphasis was laid to ensure meals contain carbohydrates (energy giving foods), proteins (foods that build and repair body tissues) and vitamins (foods that promote immunity, metabolism and digestion) are served in the right proportions in a plate.
They also shared ideas of healthy snacks for children.
People living with HIV, expectant and breastfeeding mothers also got tips on healthy meals for themselves and their babies. In line with this year’s theme: "Our Food Our Culture" they advised residents against abandoning traditional foods in exchange for processed ones which lacked most nutrients.
County Director of Health Dr Shem Patta, said 75% of the County residents are obese due to unhealthy eating habits.
"Diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure are rife as a result of unhealthy eating habits," said Dr Patta.
Also present was Mombasa Devolution and Public Service Administration CeC Seth Odongo and County Assembly Health Committee Chairman Swaleh Kibwana.
Attendees also benefited from free health services such as diabetes and high blood pressure testing.
The partners who spearheaded the event include G.R.A.C.E Africa, Sun CSA Kenya, KANCO, PS Kenya and WOFAK.