Home economist Mrs Louise D'Allurra believes that the additives used in foods to enhance flavour and appearance are a major concern to families who are pursuing a healthier lifestyle.

She said that by reducing a person's intake of additives, the problems parents may be experiencing with their children could gradually be solved.

Mrs D'Allurra, from Queensland, has been touring the Central West advising parents on children's behaviour problems and raising awareness of food content that could cure issues.

She gave a lecture 'Meal Planning Your Way' in Dubbo at the RSL last night.

This latest advice on foods and diets comes after a report released by the National Health Performance Authority revealed that 79 per cent of people in Western NSW were overweight or obese.

The report also stated that approximately 10.8 million Australians were overweight or obese.

The report was based on statistics on people aged over 15 in areas covered by Medicare Local.

Dubbo mum of two Carolyn Simmonds, owner of Nourishing and Delicious wholefoods and organics and Thermomix Group Leader for Dubbo-Mudgee, is a passionate promoter of healthy lifestyles in the community.

"We need to give our kids the best start in life." Mrs Simmonds said.

"Obesity is a serious problem, particularly with children."

"However with the right intake of foods and exercise, it can be reduced and altogether avoided."

Mrs D'Allura says there is a link between the amount of additives consumed by children and behaviour and learning problems.

She believes it is important to encourage healthy eating from an early age, particularly in regional areas.

Mrs Simmonds praises Mrs D'Allura's work and urges all families to listen to her advice.

"Louise's seminars allow parents to gain insight and address the problems they may be experiencing with their children."

"Changing a couple of things can make all the difference."

"I hear stories of parents removing additives from their diets who have had fantastic responses," Mrs Simmonds said.

"Even just simple things like making your own tomato sauce instead of buying it from the supermarket can make all the difference."

Leadership Coach Kerrie Phipps is also a keen advocate for promoting healthy eating.

As the MC for 'Meal Planning Your Way', Mrs Phipps believes that the way people's mind functions is a strong influence on the foods they eat.

"If we are thinking clearer, we are making better decisions," Mrs Phipps said.

"Louise's seminar complements the ideas that I work with."

"There is so much pressure in everyday life, we need to think of what we feed our brains and our bodies," Mrs Phipps said.

Mrs Phipps believes that if families took the time to organise and plan their meals, the results in children's behaviour and focus would be remarkable.

"Louise's work equips parents to support their children's health and take control."