With obesity and its far-reaching implications costing the NHS in excess of £5.1 billion every year, MPs in the UK have suggested a number of solutions which may curb the rising epidemic.
In a report which aims to tackle the UK's obesity crisis, MPs have called for the restriction of junk food advertisements, suggesting that they should only hit screens after the 9pm watershed.
Focussing on the implications such advertisements can have on the younger generation, the health committee report insists "all advertising of high fat, salt and sugar foods and drinks" should be aired after the 9pm watershed.
Outlining their standpoint, the document reads: "We also endorse Public Health England's recommendation of extending current restrictions on advertising to apply across all other forms of broadcast media, social media and advertising, including in cinemas, on posters, in print, online and advergame."
Further to this, the document highlights the need for stronger controls regarding supermarket deals on unhealthy food and the prominence of sugary foods at the checkout.
In addition to this, the report puts forward a recommendation which suggests a need to introduce a 20% 'sugar tax' on soft drinks - a matter which has already divided opinion among politicians,
As it stands, the NHS have spent approximately £7 million in the past five years altering services and equipment in an effort to treat patients categorised as obese.
Popular
New Mums Say Trial - sign up
