Rethink consumption of sugary drinks

THE EDITOR, Madam:

Regular consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages is linked to gout, dental decay, cavities, type-2 diabetes, heart disease, renal disease, and non-alcoholic liver disease. Individuals can maintain a healthy weight and adopt healthy eating habits by limiting their intake of sugary beverages.

All non-alcoholic, water-based beverages with added sugar are considered sugar-sweetened beverages. These includes cordials, energy drinks, and non-diet soft drinks. These types of drinks contain a lot of sugar and excess kilojoules, with little to no nutritional value. It is time we start to better manage our health and choose the healthier path. One can start by cutting back slowly. If one has sugary drinks like sodas and sweetened teas regularly, start by gradually reduce the sweetness. Sugary drinks can be replaced with water and for flavour slices of fruits can be added.

Efficacious strategies to reduce sugar-sweetened beverage consumption are needed. The efforts of the Ministry of Health and Wellness, and the Ministry of Education and Youth are commendable. The success of their works is underscored by the number of schools that have reduced the availability of sugary drinks and have moved to selling juices with no added sugars. The same effort needs to be seen in our communities and local shops. Small businesses across the island play a vital role in reducing the supply of sugary drinks and increasing the availability of alternatives, such as diet drinks and sparkling water with no added sugars, and even an all-natural option, a blended-fruit smoothie. Imagine diversifying products and benefitting from increased sales, and promoting healthy lifestyle.

LENEKA RHODEN

Ambassador

Governor General’s I Believe

Initiative