A paediatrician at Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Dr Usman Ibrahim, has warned that excessive consumption of free sugar could increase children’s risk of obesity, Type 2 diabetes and other health complications.
Ibrahim told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos that free sugar includes table sugar and added sugars found in processed foods, sugary drinks, fruit juices and honey. He said the World Health Organisation recommends that free sugar should make up less than 10 per cent of daily energy intake.
According to him, excessive sugar can contribute to unhealthy weight gain, insulin resistance, hypertension and heart disease, while also reducing children’s appetite for nutritious foods needed for proper growth. He also warned that frequent sugar consumption could cause dental caries, potentially leading to pain, infection and tooth loss.
The paediatrician advised parents to limit sugary snacks and drinks, read food labels and encourage children to drink water. He recommended whole fruits, plain yoghurt and age-appropriate nuts or peanut butter as healthier alternatives, while urging schools to educate children about healthy eating and regulate sugary foods during celebrations.
Ibrahim also explained that Type 2 diabetes is increasingly being seen among children, partly due to overweight and obesity. He urged families to adopt healthier diets, reduce sedentary behaviour and seek medical attention when symptoms such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, increased hunger or unexplained weight loss occur.
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