Excessive sugar consumption In childhood it is a growing public health problem worldwide. Although sweets, soft drinks and products Ultraprocess They are a usual part of the diet of many children, their excessive intake can have serious consequences in the short and long term. Various studies have linked high consumption of sugars added with an increase in the incidence of several chronic diseases from an early age.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), children should consume less than 10% of their daily caloric intake in the form of free sugars, and ideally reduce it below 5% to obtain additional health benefits. However, in many countries, the average consumption widely exceeds these recommendations.
Diseases related to excessive sugar consumption
The impact of excess sugar on the children’s body goes far beyond dental caries. Next, some of the main associated diseases are detailed:
1. Child Obesity
One of the most obvious consequences of excessive sugar consumption is weight gain. Sugary foods and drinks are highly caloric and little satiating, which favors excessive calorie intake. Child obesity, in turn, increases the risk of metabolic and cardiovascular problems throughout life, explains Claudia López, pediatrician.
2. Type 2 diabetes
Although traditionally associated with adults, Type 2 diabetes It is increasingly diagnosed in children and adolescents. Excess sugar can cause insulin resistance, a disorder in which the body does not properly use this hormone, which finally leads to the development of diabetes.
3. Cardiovascular diseases
The high consumption of added sugars is related to cardiovascular risk factors such as the increase in triglycerides, arterial hypertension and dyslipidemias. These factors can initiate vascular damage processes from an early age, says Andrea Méndez, general practitioner.
4. Non -alcoholic fatty liver
The non -alcoholic fatty liver is also becoming a pediatric problem. Excess fructose, a type of sugar present in many processed foods, favors the accumulation of fat in the liver, increasing the risk of inflammation and liver damage.
5. Dental problems
Sugar is the main responsible for the development of tooth decay. When bacteria in the mouth metabolize sugar, they produce acids that erode dental enamel, generating decay that, if not treated, can cause infections and teeth loss.
6. Behavioral disorders
Some studies suggest that a diet rich in sugars may be associated with attention problems, hyperactivity and mood alterations in children, although this relationship is still research.
How to reduce sugar consumption in children?
Reducing the amount of sugar in children’s diet requires a joint effort between parents, educators and public health authorities. Some practical strategies include:
- Limit the consumption of soft drinks, industrialized juices and sports drinks.
- Promote water consumption as the main drink.
- Opt for natural snacks such as fresh fruits, nuts and yogurt without added sugar.
- Read food labels to identify hidden sugars under names such as corn, dextrose or maltose syrup.
- Cook at home to have greater control over the ingredients used.
- Establish a good example, since children mimic adult eating habits.