PAN South Africa Calls for a Plant-Forward Approach During National Healthy Lifestyle Awareness Month
Advocating for Plant-Forward Solutions to Tackle Lifestyle Diseases and Promote Holistic Well-Being Across South Africa.
February is National Healthy Lifestyle Awareness Month in South Africa, highlighting the key elements of a healthy lifestyle. This aligns with World Pulses Day on 10 February, celebrating the role of nutrient-rich pulses in a balanced diet.
With South Africa grappling with rising rates of lifestyle diseases, now is the time to rethink our plates as the foundation of our health. February marks National Healthy Lifestyle Awareness Month, culminating in National Healthy Lifestyle Awareness Day on 21 February. This annual observance is a vital opportunity to promote the six pillars of a healthy lifestyle: good nutrition, regular physical activity, prioritising good quality sleep, stress management, maintaining healthy social connections, and interventions against alcohol and substance abuse.
PAN South Africa is committed to reducing diet-related deaths by raising awareness of the benefits of plant-forward dietary patterns among healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the public. Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, seeds, and pulses and lower in fat, sugar, animal products, and processed foods have been proven to manage and prevent lifestyle diseases such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and certain cancers.
"South Africa is at a critical juncture where the burden of non-communicable diseases continues to rise. It’s essential to prioritise a shift towards plant-based eating patterns, not only for personal health but also to address broader issues like food security and environmental sustainability,” says Nanine Wyma, Executive Director of PAN South Africa.
However, the 2024 National Food and Nutrition Security Survey paints a concerning picture. While over 97% of South Africans consume cereals, nutrient-dense foods such as pulses and nuts are consumed by only 29.7% of the population. Despite being affordable, having a low glycemic index, and their proven ability to manage conditions such as diabetes, they remain under-consumed. Additionally, over half of the population experiences food insecurity, which drives the consumption of unhealthy, ultra-processed foods associated with lifestyle diseases.
World Pulses Day (10 February), which coincides with National Healthy Lifestyle Awareness Month, is a key moment to spotlight the health and environmental benefits of pulses. Unfortunately, these nutrient-dense foods are often stigmatised as "poverty food." PAN South Africa urges the government to leverage this occasion to shift public perception and educate communities on the critical role of pulses in managing and preventing chronic diseases.
“Pulses should be seen as a powerful, affordable solution to some of the most pressing health challenges we face today. Promoting their consumption can directly impact our nation’s health and food security,” adds Wyma.
The South African Lifestyle Medicine Association (SALMA) emphasises a holistic approach to health, which extends beyond nutrition. In addition to promoting a plant-based diet, SALMA advocates for regular exercise, stress management, restorative sleep, avoidance of risky substances, and positive social interactions as the six pillars of a healthy lifestyle.
"True health requires a multifaceted approach. By addressing all aspects of lifestyle, we can significantly reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases in South Africa," says Dr. Lydia Alatini, Secretary of SALMA.
Economic challenges, cultural eating habits, lack of nutritional knowledge, and limited dietary diversity remain significant barriers to achieving a healthy lifestyle for many South Africans. PAN South Africa calls on the government and stakeholders to address these systemic issues during National Healthy Lifestyle Awareness Month by:
Supporting community and household gardening initiatives to improve access to fresh produce.
Advocating for the inclusion of nutritious, balanced, plant-based foods in hospitals to enhance patient health and well-being
Promoting stable job opportunities to tackle food insecurity.
Educating communities on balanced nutrition and the benefits of plant-based diets.
Developing a school food policy to promote healthier meal and snack options for children and teachers.
As we observe National Healthy Lifestyle Awareness Month, PAN South Africa invites healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the public to join the movement toward a healthier, more sustainable South Africa. Small, consistent changes—such as incorporating more pulses, fruits, and vegetables into daily meals—can lead to profound impacts on individual and community health.
Together, let’s reimagine our plates and commit to creating a healthier nation for future generations.
ENDS
About PAN South Africa
Physicians Association for Nutrition (PAN) South Africa, established in 2020, is the national chapter of a global medical non-profit organisation in over 10 countries. We work with health professionals, students and policymakers on the role of plant-forward dietary patterns for chronic disease, climate change and pandemic risk.
PAN South Africa Media Contact
Shaiyah Nosipho Luthuli – Communications Manager
Email: shaiyah.nosipho@pan-sa.org; +27 72 579 5222
