People in the age group of 2-18 years should consume less than 6 teaspoons of added sugars in a day: IMA & HCFI
Kids love sugar, but consuming too many foods and beverages with added sugar can cause health problems, including tooth decay, obesity and nutrition deficiencies. Realising the need to raise awareness about the long-term health implications the excessive consumption of sugar can have on a child’s health, IMA & HCFI released an advisory.
“Children aged 2-18 years should consume less than 6 teaspoons of added sugars a day and less than 8 ounces of sugar-sweetened drinks a week. Table sugar, fructose and honey, sugar used in processing and preparing foods or beverages or sugars added to foods at the table, or eaten separately are added sugars. Children younger than 2 years should not consume added sugars at all”, said Padma Shri Awardee Dr KK Aggarwal, National President Elect – Indian Medical Association (IMA) and President Heart Care Foundation of India (HCFI).
This advisory issued by IMA & HCFI is in line with American Heart Association guidelines published August 22 in the journal Circulation.
Regular consumption of foods and drinks high in added sugars can lead to high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes. Sugars remain a commonly added ingredient in foods and drinks.
What parents need to realise is that it’s not necessary to eliminate all sugar completely from their child’s diet. Moderate consumption of sugar can be part of a healthy diet. They can start by limiting portions of cookies and other sweet treats. Substitute healthier, fruit-based desserts. Also limit sugary cereals – go with whole-grain cereals without added sugar. Check the ingredient list on foods you buy for your child. If you see sugar or high fructose corn syrup near the top of the list, look for a healthier option. Consider making the food yourself with reduced sugar. Be sure your child brushes twice a day and flosses once daily to protect against cavities.
A few negative effects of added sugar on a person’s heath
1. Added sugar contains no essential nutrients and is bad for your teeth
2. Added sugar is high in fructose, which can overload your liver
3. Overloading the liver with fructose can cause Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
4. Sugar can cause Insulin Resistance, a stepping-stone towards Metabolic Syndrome and Diabetes
5. The Insulin Resistance can progress to Type II Diabetes
6. Sugar can give you Cancer
7. Due to its effects on Hormones and the Brain, sugar has unique Fat-Promoting effects
8. Because it causes Massive Dopamine release in the Brain, sugar is highly addictive
9. Sugar is a leading contributor to Obesity in both children and adults
10. It isn’t the fat but the sugar that raises your Cholesterol and Gives You Heart Disease