Sugar related *health risks*
High consumption of free sugars is a health concern because of the association with poor quality diet, obesity, tooth decay and the risk of noncommunicable diseases such as diabetes.
The World Obesity Federation’s 2025 Atlas projects that the total number of adults living with obesity will increase by more than 115% between 2010 and 2030, from 524 million to 1.13 billion.
Currently it is estimated that 1 in 11 adults (415 million people) have diabetes, although approximately 46% of people with diabetes are thought to be undiagnosed. By 2040, it is expected that over 640 million of the world’s adult population may be living with the disease.
Tooth decay occurs when sugar interacts with the bacteria within the plaque to enamel and dentine of teeth creating holes or cavities. Individuals whose diet consists of high levels of free sugars, have a higher risk of tooth decay, particularly if the food they eat is sticky or consumed in between mealtimes. Tooth decay is a significant and growing problem for children and adolescents as they have become accustomed to sugar.
• Brush teeth twice a day and floss once a day
• Eat less foods and drinks which are high in added sugar
• Reduce acid production by cutting down on snacking
• Do not eat sugary foods between meals
