Beware of hidden sugar in beverages, warns ministry

dubai — To raise awareness on the risks associated with sugar sweetened beverages, the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has launched a campaign for the community.

The campaign will raise awareness about the health risks associated with drinking sugar-sweetened beverages as these beverages are consumed in large quantities because of their availability and marketing.

This is the third phase of the campaign ‘Your Health Comes First’ under the slogan “Beat the habit...Fight Extra Sugar”

We aim to correct misconceptions about sweetened beverages; for example, that they are free of added sugar, and clarify that sugar can be hidden in beverages.” Nouf Khamis, health education & promotion department, MoHAP

and will take place until January 2018.

The campaign also aims to raise awareness about the chronic diseases associated with consuming large amounts of sugar.

Dr Fadila Mohamed Sherif, director of the health education and promotion department, said that the MoHAP pays a great attention to the topic of health awareness.

To be specific, the health risks associated with overconsumption of sugar, in order to promote the health of the members of the society, and prevent obesity and its associated health problems. This campaign is part of the national initiative that aims to promote healthy lifestyles.

Nouf Khamis, deputy manager, health education and promotion department, explained that the topic of sweetened drinks was chosen as many drinks contain large amounts of sugar that exceeds the daily requirement of added sugar in the diet; this, in turn, affects daily caloric intake, and may result in weight gain and other related diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.

“We aim to correct misconceptions about sweetened beverages; for example, that they are free of added sugar, and clarify that sugar can be hidden in many beverages with different names.

“In addition, we hope to reduce the consumption of sugar amongst individuals in order to adhere to the recommendations,” she said.