A weighty problem

Beijing has come up with one more measure to tackle an increasingly weighty problem. Its latest guideline on how to lead a healthy life is informative about healthy diets, enough sleep and suitable levels of physical activity.

The guideline comes as a timely reminder when our waistlines are increasing and calorie intake is rising, even though we are more aware of the importance of leading a healthy life now. Beijing residents on average are consuming more than two times the recommended amount of salt and almost double the amount of oil per day.

Overweight or obesity increases health risks among people and is primarily an urban problem. In Beijing, Shanghai and other large cities, high-calorie eateries have become the restaurants of choice for the country's growing middle class. The percentage of obese children in Shanghai is nearly three times the national average.