Excess sugar in Spanish children: A worrisome challenge

According to a study carried out by the Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology of the University of Granada, Spanish children consume, on average, "more than double" the amount of added sugar recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). , which is 25 grams a day. From the hand of CanaryDoctor experts we tell you all the details!

This study, published in the scientific journal 'Nutrients', was based on a sample of 1.775 adults with children between the ages of 7 and 12, and aimed to assess the intake of added sugars and analyze the nutritional quality of the foods that these foods provide. sugars in children's diets.

The researchers used an index to assess the nutritional value of the foods studied, reflecting the amount of nutrients present in each serving of each food, as well as a daily nutrient intake index, calculated based on the daily amount consumed of each food.

The results of the study reveal that the average consumption of added sugars in Spanish children far exceeds the WHO recommendations. In addition, it was found that more than 65% of these sugars come from foods with a low nutritional density.

There are various foods that contribute to the consumption of added sugars in Spanish children. Some examples of these foods include white sugar, jams, sauces, candies, cocoa powder, soft drinks, ice cream, cookies, fruit nectars, industrial pastry and pastry products, chocolate bars, biscuits and homemade pastries, as well as energy drinks. and/or sports.s.

The remaining 35% originates from foods and/or products that have a higher nutritional density. Examples of these foods include medium-density dairy desserts, sweetened or flavored vegetable drinks and yogurts, packaged milkshakes with at least 90% milk, breakfast cereals, and fortified high-density infant formulas.

Experts recommend consuming fruits and foods that contain natural sugars, while nectars (which contain added sugars) should be avoided. In addition, they make a distinction regarding foods that contain added sugars but also other nutrients, such as breakfast cereals, shakes with at least 90% milk and vegetable drinks, and suggest reducing their consumption without eliminating them completely from the daily diet.

Regarding foods that provide a large amount of added sugars and have a low nutritional density, such as industrial pastries, cookies, cocoa powder, chocolate bars and candies, experts warn that they should be consumed only occasionally and make parents aware about it.

The study expresses concern about the consumption of sugary drinks by children, who frequently consume them instead of water. 

If you need help managing your health properly, contact one of our doctors in Canary Islands. You will be in the best hands!