Drinking too many sugary drinks on a regular basis can lead to a range of health problems, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, metabolic disorders, and cardiovascular diseases. Associate Professor Truong Tuyet Mai from the National Institute of Nutrition explains that these drinks are high in sugar and offer little nutritional value.
Research has shown that consuming just one can of soda per day for 1.5 years can increase the risk of overweight and obesity by 60%. Sweetened beverages are quickly absorbed by the body, leading to an increase in energy consumption without the body registering the calories consumed. This can result in excess energy intake and weight gain. Furthermore, the sweetness from sugary drinks can trigger cravings for more sweet foods, increasing hunger and reducing the feeling of fullness.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that sugary drink consumption in Vietnam has increased significantly over the years. The WHO recommends limiting sugar intake for children and implementing measures such as taxes on sugary drinks, nutritional labeling, restrictions on advertising, and promoting healthy eating habits in schools.
Mr. Nguyen Tuan Lam, WHO representative in Vietnam, suggests implementing a 20% tax on sugary drinks to help combat rising rates of overweight and obesity, particularly among children. These measures can help reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases in future generations.
