Sarumi explained that SSBs are drinks that contain added sugars such as sucrose, high-fructose corn syrup, or other sweeteners like honey and molasses. Examples include sodas, fruit drinks, energy drinks, and sports drinks. These drinks are full of sugar and give the body far more energy than it needs.
An average bottle of SSB contains nearly 14 cubes of sugar, more than the daily sugar intake recommended by health experts. This excess sugar is dangerous to the body, causing a sudden rise and crash in blood sugar levels, leading to fatigue, mood swings, and over time, serious health problems like heart disease, weight gain, and type 2 diabetes.
Sarumi pointed out that SSBs are easily available, aggressively marketed, and often seen as a normal part of daily life. They are ultra-processed and wrongly sold as essential. This marketing has made people believe they are harmless, but that is far from the truth.
According to data, Nigeria is now one of the largest consumers of sugary drinks in Africa. In 2024, Nigerians consumed over 54 billion litres of SSBs, a significant increase from previous years. This rise is happening alongside an increase in fast food and processed snack consumption, contributing to a diet-related disease explosion.
The health implications are alarming. Over 27.5 million Nigerians live with hypertension, and 22% of the population faces the risk of dying early from non-communicable diseases. Sarumi warned that the situation would worsen if nothing is done to reduce SSB consumption.
Awareness about the dangers of SSBs is also a major concern. Many people don't realize just how dangerous these drinks can be. Some myths and misleading advice make things worse, and some health workers even recommend sugary drinks to patients.
The food industry plays a significant role in promoting SSBs, especially among young people. These products are cheap, everywhere, and heavily advertised. They are shown as symbols of fun, status, or success, without any warning about their dangers. Companies behind SSBs also position themselves as "friends of society" through Corporate Social Responsibility programs, making it harder to question their products.
To reduce consumption, Sarumi supports the implementation of a strong SSB tax. However, he emphasizes that this must go beyond raising revenue and fund healthcare, especially for people living with diabetes and other diet-related conditions. The government must use the tax money for public health campaigns to educate citizens.
Other supporting measures are also necessary, such as clear warning labels on sugary products, limits on how much salt or sugar companies can use, banning celebrities from endorsing SSBs, and restricting marketing aimed at children. These combined policies will protect Nigerians, especially children, and help improve the overall health of the country.
In conclusion, the consumption of SSBs is a growing health concern in Nigeria. With the country consuming over 54 billion litres of these drinks in 2024, it's essential to take action to reduce their consumption. Implementing a strong SSB tax, public health campaigns, and other supporting measures can help mitigate the health risks associated with SSBs and improve the overall health of Nigerians [1].
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