Hugo Chávez makes 'cut the calories' plea to Venezuelans

Hugo Chávez has urged Venezuelans to cut their calories to avoid obesity – the latest lifestyle recommendation by the self-proclaimed socialist crusader.

The president has lobbied in recent weeks against what he calls the evils of capitalism, including alcoholism, breast implants and violent television programmes. "Be careful with weight gain," he warned during his weekly television and radio programme. "We are eating better, that's been proven. We're leaving malnutrition behind. It no longer exists in the country, but be careful with obesity."

Chávez – who often dispenses advice during marathon speeches – said he would start a campaign urging Venezuelans to consume less fatty foods and eat more healthily.