How Much Sugar Is Too Much For Kids

With abundant sugar-laden eatables and beverages being easily accessible, children often consume more sugar than the recommended intake. From weight gain to diabetes, the sweet solid has wide-ranging side effects.

1.Recommended Intake Per Day

For kids of four to six years, 19gm (5 teaspoons) is recommended, while 24gm (6 teaspoons) is advisable for children of seven to 10years. Whereas, for kids in the age group of 11 years and above, 30gm (7 teaspoons) is prescribed.

2.Health Problems

Health problems such as dental caries and enamel erosion, weight gain, diabetes, kidney damage and some cancers are linked to high consumption of sugar.

3.How Excess Sugar Affects the Body

Consuming excess sugar leads to resistance to insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. This may act as a precursor to type 2 diabetes and other illnesses.

4. Drinks to Avoid or Limit

Juices and fruit-flavoured drinks that have added sugars should be limited. Whole fruits are healthier alternatives.

5.Foods to Avoid or Limit

The consumption of foods with added sugars like muffins, flavoured yoghurts, or cookies should be limited. Children younger than 24 months old should particularly avoid added sugars.