Hidden sugars lurking in everyday food products, from packaged snacks and breads to flavoured teas and so-called “healthy” beverages, are silently pushing people towards pre-diabetes, warn health experts.
According to them, what is particularly alarming is that many developing early signs of diabetes appear physically fit, exercise regularly and have no family history of the disease.
The experts say a major reason behind the rise is a steady increase in consumption of sugary drinks and ultra processed foods. “People often assume only sweets or desserts contain sugar. But readymade snacks, instant cereals, energy drinks, iced teas, coffee premixes and even packaged chutneys contain significant added sugar,” said Dr Satinderjit Singh Bajaj, Civil Surgeon.
He added that when consumed daily, this sugar overload forces the body to produce more insulin, eventually leading to insulin resistance.
India is already considered the diabetes capital of the world and local health records indicate a worrisome surge in pre-diabetic cases among people aged between 20 and 40. Experts believe this trend is linked not only to poor dietary awareness, but also to the rapid adaption of urban lifestyles, irregular meals, stress and reliance on convenient and ready-to-eat food items.
Nutritionists say beverages marketed as refreshing, natural or low calorie are often the biggest culprits. They said a single bottle of flavoured iced tea may contain four teaspoons sugar and some packaged juices can exceed the daily recommended limit in one serving. “People underestimate drinks. Liquid calories spike blood sugar much faster. Having sugary drinks every day is a direct pathway to metabolic disorders,” said Sangeeta Sharma, a nutrition expert.
Experts stressed that most consumers do not read nutrition labels and even if they do, sugar is often disguised under other names such as glucose syrup, maltose, fructose, sucrose, cane juice, caramel, dextrose or corn syrup solids.
Doctors recommend use of plain water, fresh lime, unsweetened tea or homemade drinks. They advise reducing consumption of processed foods, opting for fruits instead of juices and undergoing routine blood glucose level tests. With pre-diabetes striking silently, experts stress that awareness is the only shield.