Diary 4: Sweet White Sugar Killing Malaysian Slowly

In 1970s, each Malaysian only consumed 17 teaspoonfuls of sugar per day, it was up to 24 in 2009. The recommended daily intake of sugar is 10 teaspoonfuls or 50gm (The Star, 15 November 2009).

Excessive sweetness may lead to diabetes, obesity, cancer and other diseases (The Star 19 December 2009).

Two out of three people with diabetes eventually die from heart disease or stroke (The Star, 15 November 2009).

Malaysia is now noted for its diabetes problem. Malaysia ranks 17th highest out of 216 countries, with a comparative prevalence rate of 11.6% (The Star, 15 November 2009).

This is indeed an alarming fact that is difficult to accept or even ignore by many Malaysians.

I have given up white sugar for more than a decade. However, when I observe friends, relatives and colleagues taking high-sugar content food or drink, I feel helpless and sorry. Many of them do not realize each cup of teh tarik (350ml) contains about 6 teaspoonfuls of sugar. Some of them have diabetes and have to seek medical check-up and treatment from time to time. They could have save themselves by reducing white sugar consumption.

Have you reduced sugar intake today? Your food affects your health and your happiness.

Make a wise choice today. Choose health food containing little artificial sugar for healthy living, especially as we are getting old.