Diabetes rate in Turkey is sounding the alarm: Beware of sugar consumption!

In Turkey, 15 percent of the population has diabetes and an equal percentage has prediabetes. Prof. Dr. Kubilay Karşıdağ, a faculty member at the Istanbul University Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, emphasized in his speech at the World Sugar Consumption Awareness Week event that these high rates place a heavy burden on the healthcare system.

Prof. Dr. Karşıdağ stated, "Approximately 15 percent of social security institution expenditures are made solely for diabetes. Furthermore, one-third of people in Turkey are overweight. This situation will lead to an increase in health problems in the future." Karşıdağ pointed out that to prevent these problems, the consumption of sugar and sugary foods must be reduced.

Turkish Kidney Foundation President Timur Erk also highlighted the negative effects of excessive sugar consumption on health. Erk stated, "Sugar means addiction, and Turkey must urgently reduce its sugar consumption. Great duties fall upon all segments of society in this regard."

5 FOODS TO AVOID

Prof. Dr. Karşıdağ stated that sugar should be completely removed from the diet, adding, "We should not confuse natural sugar in fruit with processed sugars. We should consume at least three handfuls of fruit every day. However, we must stay away from baklava and foods containing fructose." Other foods that should be avoided are as follows:

1. Sugar and Sugary Foods: If sugar is added while preparing any food, it should be avoided.
2. White Bread: Bread made using refined flour should be avoided.
3. Rice Pilaf: Processed grains like white rice should not be preferred.
4. Drinks with Added Sugar or Fructose: Products such as carbonated drinks and fruit juices should be limited.
5. Commercially Prepared Products: Ready-made and fast food should be avoided as much as possible.

Karşıdağ also touched upon the importance of walking for 20 to 60 minutes every day, depending on age and capacity, stating, "Walking is a critical activity for muscle development and preservation. The most effective way to protect against diseases such as diabetes and being overweight is to adopt a healthy lifestyle."

In light of this data, experts underline that society needs to become more aware of reducing sugar consumption.