The WHO has renewed its call to limit sugar consumption due to its negative health effects, including those in products with added sugars, such as ketchup and sugary drinks. This recommendation targets “free sugars” found in processed foods, honey, fruit juices, and juice concentrates, excluding those naturally present in whole fruits and vegetables. The WHO suggests that free sugars should not exceed 10% of daily energy intake, with an ideal limit of 5%. For this reason, The WHO calls for limiting sugar consumption.
According to the WHO, reducing sugar intake below 10% lowers the risk of overweight, obesity, and tooth decay, with the 5% threshold offering even greater benefits. Some experts believe reaching the 10% goal is feasible by avoiding sugary drinks, but achieving 5% requires cutting out cakes, cookies, and similar products.
Excess sugar consumption is linked to non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and heart disease, which cause millions of premature deaths annually. Many foods contain added sugars, even those not considered sweet. Some countries, like Ecuador, have implemented product labeling based on sugar content.
The WHO calls for reduced advertising of high-sugar products to children and encourages dialogue with the food industry to lower hidden sugars in their products. Sugar consumption varies significantly by region, with Latin America leading and Africa having the lowest intake. Globally, average sugar consumption has risen over the past decade, according to OIA data cited by the WHO.
Read the article How to Properly Eliminate Sugar from Our Diet.
