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November 13, 2023
As World Diabetes Day approaches on November 14, health experts are raising concerns about the risks of feeding powdered milk and processed cereals to young children, warning that these foods could increase their risk of developing diabetes later in life. This year’s theme, “Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps,” underscores the need to address and prevent lifestyle diseases like diabetes from an early age.
India, often referred to as the diabetes capital of the world, is home to approximately 77 million people living with diabetes and an additional 25 million who are prediabetic. While genetic predisposition plays a role, experts say lifestyle factors, including diet from infancy, are critical in shaping long-term health.
“If we reduce sugar intake during pregnancy and early life, we reduce the risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, and other metabolic diseases later in life,” said Dr. Ambrish Mithal, Chairman & Head of Endocrinology & Diabetes at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket. “Our bodies are programmed by the environment we experience in utero, which affects our genes and predispositions,” he added, explaining how early nutrition influences future health outcomes.
A recent study published in the journal Science found that children who were exposed to reduced sugar during their first 1,000 days from conception had up to a 35% lower risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. The research suggests that maintaining limited sugar intake both before and after birth can have long-term health benefits.
Experts highlight that the role of processed diets—including powdered milk and cereals—can take a toll on a child’s metabolic health due to their refined sugars and carbohydrates. According to Dr. Shashank Joshi, Consultant Endocrinologist at Lilavati Hospital in Mumbai, “Early exposure to high-refined sugar content in processed foods may spike blood glucose levels and lead to metabolic disorders like diabetes later in life.”
In line with this, the World Health Organization (WHO) advises against processed diets for babies, including powdered milk and cereals, and recommends no added sugars for children up to two years old. After six months, as solid foods are introduced, it’s important to monitor sugar intake carefully. “Children over the age of three should avoid added sugars altogether,” Dr. Joshi emphasized, noting that even naturally sweetened drinks, such as fruit juices, can add unnecessary sugar to young children’s diets.
Experts encourage parents to offer natural sources of sweetness, like fresh fruits, which provide essential nutrients and fiber without the adverse effects of processed sugars. Additionally, sugary treats such as candy, pastries, and ice cream should be avoided from the beginning to set healthier eating habits early on.
“Introducing children to natural options like dates, dry fruits, and fresh fruits in controlled amounts can help satisfy their sweet cravings and promote better metabolic health,” noted Dr. Mithal. This approach can help children form healthier relationships with food, reducing their risk of diabetes and other metabolic diseases as they grow.
With World Diabetes Day’s focus on closing gaps in healthcare, the emphasis on childhood nutrition highlights a powerful, preventive strategy in the global fight against diabetes.
