As schools reopen across Nigeria, a growing health concern has emerged regarding what children drink during their day.
Dr. Abubakar Sani, a cardiologist based in Gombe, is raising the alarm about the dangers of sugary drinks for young hearts.
According to Dr. Sani, consuming too many sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) can significantly increase a child’s risk of developing serious conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, and Type 2 diabetes.
The Hidden Dangers of Sugary Drinks
Dr. Sani explained in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria that many parents unknowingly put their children at risk by including sugary juices and fizzy drinks in school lunches.
“Children who regularly drink too many sugary beverages face risks such as obesity and severe tooth decay,” he said.
“These drinks may seem harmless, but over time, they can have a major impact on heart health.”
He emphasized that attention should be paid not just to adult diets but also to the habits children form from an early age.
Advice for Parents and Caregivers
To protect children’s health, Dr. Sani advises parents to limit or even remove sugary drinks from their children’s daily routine.
He stressed the importance of keeping these beverages out of the home, not just in school settings.
“Water should always be the first choice for hydration,” he said.
“It’s simple, safe, and the healthiest option for kids.”
What Counts as a Sugary Drink?
The World Health Organization defines sugar-sweetened beverages as any drink containing free sugars.
This includes carbonated and non-carbonated soft drinks, fruit and vegetable juices, powdered or liquid concentrates, flavoured water, energy and sports drinks, ready-to-drink teas and coffees, and even flavoured milk drinks.
WHO points out that these beverages offer no nutritional benefit and do not contribute positively to a healthy diet.
Taking Action for a Healthier Future
With non-communicable diseases on the rise, Dr. Sani’s message is clear: parents must take proactive steps to reduce sugary drink consumption among children.
Small changes, like swapping sugary drinks for water, can help safeguard children’s hearts and overall health.
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