Sugar has become one of the most pervasive ingredients in modern diets. From soft drinks to packaged snacks, added sugars are ubiquitous, contributing to a public health crisis that is gradually escalating. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), excessive sugar consumption is directly linked to non-communicable diseases such as obesity, heart disease, and diabetes.
The question arises: why are we consuming so much sugar, and how can we reduce it? The sugar epidemic is not a new phenomenon. Over recent decades, sugar consumption has surged globally, with many countries reporting a concerning increase in the intake of sugary foods and beverages. In Bangladesh, for example, sugary snacks and soft drinks have become increasingly common, particularly among younger populations.
The consequences include alarming rises in obesity and diabetes rates, which have placed significant strain on public health systems and imposed a considerable financial burden on families, particularly in low-income communities. At the heart of the problem is the overconsumption of "hidden sugars." These sugars are found not only in candies and cakes but also in processed foods that are part of many people's daily diets.
Items such as bread, sauces, and even yoghurt often contain substantial amounts of added sugars. A typical soft drink can contain up to 10 teaspoons of sugar, far exceeding the WHO's recommended daily limit of 6 teaspoons for women and 9 for men. This excessive sugar intake incre.