REPORT ON NATIONAL NUTRITION WEEK PROGRAMME
The Department of Public Health Dentistry, Azeezia College of Dental Science and Research, in association with the National Service Scheme (NSS), organized an informative webinar as part of National Nutrition Week 2026.The National Nutrition Week 2026 programme was conducted through Google Meet on 8th September 2026 (Tuesday) from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The session was conducted as part of National Nutrition Week, observed from 1 September to 7 September 2026, with the theme “Discover the Power of Nutrition”. The resource person for the session was Ms. Chinju Lidiya Joy, currently working as Quality Executive and Dietician at Tiruvella Medical Mission Hospital, Kerala. She holds an MSc in Food Technology and a Post Graduate Diploma in Nutrition and Dietetics. She has a professional interest in food quality, nutrition, food safety, and healthcare services.
The programme commenced at 7:00 p.m. with an introduction to the session. The introductory speech was delivered by Dr. Naveen Jacob Varghese, Reader, Department of Public Health Dentistry, Azeezia Dental College. The session focused on the topic “Hidden Sugar in the Modern Diet”. Ms. Chinju Lidiya Joy provided valuable insights into the presence of hidden sugars in commonly consumed foods and beverages. The session helped the participants understand how excessive and unnoticed sugar consumption can affect overall health. It also highlighted the importance of reading food labels, identifying different sources of added sugars, making healthier food choices, and maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet. The session was particularly beneficial for the final-year BDS students, as it enhanced their awareness regarding nutrition and its role in maintaining general and oral health. The programme also emphasized the importance of making informed dietary choices and promoting healthy eating habits among individuals and communities. A question-and-answer session was also conducted, during which the students actively interacted with the resource person by asking various questions. Ms. Chinju Lidiya Joy patiently answered their queries and clarified their doubts.
The meeting concluded at 8:00 p.m. Overall, the session was highly informative and provided the participants with useful knowledge about hidden sugars, healthy food choices, nutrition, and the importance of a balanced diet. It was a valuable initiative by the Department of Public Health Dentistry and NSS to promote nutritional awareness and encourage a healthier lifestyle among students.
