Limit Sugar Content in Packed Food and Drinks, Says ICMR in New Rules: How It Benefits Health

Sugar is one of the first things that people reduce intake of when they embark on weight loss. White sugar is also considered as white poison that adds on calories, can cause obesity and other health issues as well. Recently, the Indian Medical Council of Research (ICMR) and National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) proposed a set of latest guidelines regarding the presence of sugar in packed foods and drinks. Reportedly, the new rules are set to replace 13 year-old guidelines that capped calorie threshold in food.

According to a report by Economic Times, the limits could impact soft drinks, juices,  ice-creams, and cereals. Following the news, several food and beverage makers have raised concerns and left on a frenzy.

All these stringer measure towards sugar intake come after the controversy of Nestle adding sugar in baby food broke out. The Union Health Ministry has allegedly instructed Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), the top food regulator body, to introduce norms mandating warning labels on food packages. These labels reflecting the sugar content will be along the lines of pictorial health warnings found on cigarette packets, The Print reported.

5 Health Benefits of Cutting Sugar Intake

1. Weight Management: Sugar, especially in the form of added sugars and sweeteners, is high in calories with little to no nutritional value. Reducing sugar intake can help lower calorie consumption, which is crucial for weight loss and maintaining a healthy body weight.
2. Blood Sugar Regulation: Consuming excess sugar can lead to spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels, which can be particularly problematic for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition. Reducing sugar intake can help stabilize blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
3. Boost Heart Health: Added sugars are linked to an increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and high levels of triglycerides and LDL (bad) cholesterol. Cutting down on sugar can help lower the risk of these cardiovascular issues, leading to a healthier heart.
4. Reduced Inflammation: Excessive sugar consumption has been associated with increased inflammation in the body. Reducing sugar intake can help lower inflammation, which is linked to a variety of chronic health conditions, including heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease.
5. Improved Dental Health: Sugar is a major contributor to the development of tooth decay and cavities. Reducing sugar consumption, especially sugary drinks and snacks, can help prevent tooth decay and maintain good oral health.

There is growing evidence that excess sugar consumption may be linked to an increased risk of certain types of cancer, such as colorectal, breast, and prostate cancer. Reducing sugar intake may help lower this risk.

The ICMR has also published a 17-chapter comprehensive guidelines for dietary rules for Indians.