In a bid to tackle the growing burden of diet-related diseases, health experts and advocates are calling on Ugandan policymakers to enforce stricter regulations on sugar-sweetened products, including imposing higher taxes to discourage excessive consumption.
The move according to experts aims to make sugary products less accessible and affordable, encouraging healthier alternatives like water.
Sugar-sweetened beverages, snacks, and processed foods—such as cookies, cakes, ice cream, doughnuts, and sweet rolls—are among the leading sources of added sugars in Ugandan diets. These products, which are widely available across the country, contribute to a range of health problems, including obesity, Type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.
Hubert Nkabura, a clinician, health educator, and CEO of the IAN Foundation, emphasized the dangers of added sugars, which include table sugar, syrups, honey, and concentrated fruit juices. “The overconsumption of these products is directly linked to serious health conditions,” Nkabura stated. “We need immediate action to curb this public health crisis.”
Nkabura also urged policymakers to mandate clearer labeling on food products, ensuring that manufacturers disclose total sugar content. Additionally, he called for public education campaigns to help consumers understand how to interpret food labels and make informed choices.
Natural vs. Refined Sugars: A Critical Distinction
Nkabura highlighted the stark difference between natural sugars found in unprocessed foods and refined sugars added to processed products. Natural sugars, present in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, are packed with essential nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals. In contrast, refined sugars offer no nutritional value and can lead to adverse health effects.
“Natural sugars not only provide energy but also promote healthy skin, reduce acne, and support overall well-being,” Nkabura explained. “On the other hand, refined sugars contribute to weight gain, chronic diseases, and even mental health issues.”
Alarming Global and Local Statistics
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that in 2022, 2.5 million adults were overweight, and 890 million were obese globally. In 2019, high body mass index (BMI) contributed to 5 million deaths worldwide due to non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Nkabura linked these alarming figures to the excessive consumption of refined sugars, which are a major driver of obesity and related health complications.
“Refined sugars significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, with studies showing a 38% higher likelihood of death from heart-related issues,” Nkabura warned. “They also contribute to liver diseases, such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and cirrhosis, as well as joint problems and sexual health issues.”
A Call for Action
Speaking at the Busoga Health Forum Webinar, Nkabura advocated for a multi-pronged approach to reduce sugar consumption. He recommended replacing added sugars with herbs and spices in savory products and launching public health campaigns to promote gradual dietary changes.
“The goal is to limit added sugars as much as possible,” Nkabura advised. “We urge the public to prioritize natural, unprocessed foods and be mindful of their sugar intake.”
The WHO recommends that added sugars should account for less than 10% of total daily energy intake. However, with the rising consumption of sugary products across all age groups in Uganda, health educators are sounding the alarm on the urgent need for intervention.
As the country grapples with the dual burden of malnutrition and diet-related NCDs, the implementation of sugar taxes and stricter regulations could be a critical step toward safeguarding public health and reducing the prevalence of preventable diseases.
