They propose reducing the opening of fast food establishments to reduce childhood obesity

This is now underlined by a study from the University of Lancaster (United Kingdom) which has seen that planning policies that restrict the opening of new fast food establishments could reduce childhood obesity rates.

The study, published in the journal ‘Obesity’, was carried out in the north-east of England, specifically in the district of Gateshead, where the City Council implemented a policy to prevent any existing commercial property from being converted into a fast food establishment for carry.

The researchers used data from the British Government, including the weight of children from the National Child Measurement Programfood hygiene ratings of the Food Standards Agencyand measures of deprivation and population of the Office for National Statistics.

The study compared different neighborhoods in Gateshead with other areas of the North East, noting that there were no significant changes in childhood obesity overall. However, in the most disadvantaged neighborhoods, where there was a greater concentration of fast food establishments, a statistically significant reduction in the prevalence of childhood overweight and obesity was found.

Researcher Heather Brown, professor at the Faculty of Health and Medicine and author of the work, believes that “if strict planning policies, like those in Gateshead, could contribute significantly to the reduction of childhood obesity, especially in disadvantaged communities, which would also help reduce health inequalities».

Restricting the opening of fast food restaurants may play a role in reducing childhood obesity for several key reasons, the researchers write.

Unhealthy

Thus, they add, with less access to unhealthy foods, easy and frequent access to this type of food is reduced, which reduces the consumption of less healthy options in children’s diets. In addition, the influence on unhealthy food decisions is receding, since fast food is attractive for its convenience, low cost and marketing campaigns aimed at children and families.

The most disadvantaged neighborhoods tend to have a higher density of fast food outlets and, in turn, higher rates of childhood obesity. Restrictions reduce this disproportionate supply and help balance access to more nutritious foods, which can mitigate obesity-related health inequalities.

Finally, at create barriers to the expansion of fast foodan environment that supports access to healthier foods is promoted, which encourages nutritional education and more sustainable eating habits in families.

Alice Wiseman, Director of Public Health at Gateshead and Newcastle Councils, said: “Creating environments that promote access to healthy food is one of the greatest public health missions of our generation. “It is encouraging to see how strong planning policies can contribute to healthier communities.”