Cambodia’s changing food habits raise health concerns

**Cambodia’s Changing Dietary Habits Raise Public Health Concerns**

Rapid economic development in Cambodia is shifting the nation’s dietary patterns, leading to increased consumption of fast food, sugary beverages, and processed snacks. Nutrition researcher Dr. Sanne Sigh warns that this “nutrition transition” threatens to undermine the health gains the country has achieved in recent decades.

In an interview with the *Khmer Times*, Dr. Sigh, who has conducted 12 years of research in Southeast Asia, stated that Cambodia is currently facing a “double burden” of malnutrition. This includes persistent micronutrient deficiencies alongside a rising prevalence of obesity and diet-related chronic conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease.

“Calories is one thing, nutrients is another thing,” Dr. Sigh said. “Being overweight does not necessarily mean that we are well-nourished.”

**Urban and Rural Challenges**
The nutritional landscape varies across the country. Rural populations often face challenges related to seasonal food availability, income, and market access. Conversely, urban residents—particularly in Phnom Penh—are increasingly exposed to a proliferation of fast-food outlets, food delivery services, and aggressive marketing of processed products.

Dr. Sigh expressed particular concern regarding the impact of these environments on children. She noted that children are being exposed to high-sugar and high-fat foods earlier in life, which shapes their long-term taste preferences. She urged parents to be mindful of using food as a reward or a source of emotional comfort, noting that children learn by observing adult behavior.

“If I’m telling my kid, you shouldn’t be drinking sugary drinks, but I’m drinking a sugary drink, my child doesn’t want to listen to what I’m saying,” she said.

**Recommendations for Healthier Patterns**
Dr. Sigh emphasized that the primary health concern is not the occasional consumption of processed food, but rather the establishment of daily dietary patterns that rely on high-sugar, high-salt, and high-fat items. She advised families to focus on small, practical changes, such as increasing vegetable intake and choosing fruit over processed sweets.

She also highlighted the importance of preserving Cambodia’s traditional diet, which is built on nutritious, locally available ingredients like rice, fish, beans, and seasonal fruits. She noted that healthy eating does not require expensive meals and that families can maintain nutritional quality by utilizing affordable, local food sources.

Regarding physical activity, Dr. Sigh suggested that formal gym memberships are not necessary, noting that daily activities such as walking, cycling, or active play are effective ways to maintain health. She also cautioned against alcohol consumption, stating that it provides “zero benefits” to the body and can interfere with nutrient absorption and metabolism.

**Policy and Future Outlook**
Dr. Sigh argued that educational campaigns alone are insufficient to address these shifts. She called for government and systemic intervention to make nutritious food more affordable, accessible, and convenient.

“If I want to reduce it to just one change, I really want to say, make the healthier choice, the easier choice,” she said.

As Cambodia continues to develop, Dr. Sigh stressed the importance of preventing a rise in chronic diseases, noting that proactive, preventive measures are significantly more cost-effective than treating long-term health conditions after they have developed.

Article and image source: khmertimeskh.com