(MENAFN- Khaleej Times) To raise awareness on the risks associated with sugar sweetened beverages, the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has launched a campaign for the community.
The campaign will raise awareness about the health risks associated with drinking sugar-sweetened beverages as these beverages are consumed in large quantities because of their availability and marketing.
This is the third phase of the campaign 'Your Health Comes First' under the slogan "Beat the habit...Fight Extra Sugar" and will take place until January 2018.
The campaign also aims to raise awareness about the chronic diseases associated with consuming large amounts of sugar.
Dr Fadila Mohamed Sherif, director of the health education and promotion department, said that the MoHAP pays a great attention to the topic of health awareness.
To be specific, the health risks associated with overconsumption of sugar, in order to promote the health of the members of the society, and prevent obesity and its associated health problems. This campaign is part of the national initiative that aims to promote healthy lifestyles.
Nouf Khamis, deputy manager, health education and promotion department, explained that the topic of sweetened drinks was chosen as many drinks contain large amounts of sugar that exceeds the daily requirement of added sugar in the diet; this, in turn, affects daily caloric intake, and may result in weight gain and other related diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.
"We aim to correct misconceptions about sweetened beverages; for example, that they are free of added sugar, and clarify that sugar can be hidden in many beverages with different names.
"In addition, we hope to reduce the consumption of sugar amongst individuals in order to adhere to the recommendations," she said.
Soft drinks / One litre (32oz)
Sugar >108g
Calories > 400
Calories from sugar> 400
Energy drink / 16 oz (480 ml) Can
Sugar > 62g
Calories > 248
Calories from sugar> 248
Iced Tea / 24 oz Can
Sugar> 72g
Calories> 270
Calories from sugar: 270
Orange juice /16 oz bottle
Sugar > 48g
Calories> 220
Calories from sugar> 192
Asma Ali Zain Associated with KT for 15 years. Covers health issues, Pakistan community, human interest stories as well as general topics for daily news or features.
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