Dr Chinonso Egemba, a popular Nigerian health advocate, has warned parents about excessive sugar consumption among children. He stressed that high sugar intake increases the risk of Type 2 diabetes in young people.
Egemba, widely known as Aproko Doctor, shared the warning through a post on social media. He explained that many parents unknowingly expose their children to excessive sugar daily. As a result, such habits may increase the chances of metabolic diseases later in life.
According to the doctor, many adults now adopt healthier lifestyles and dietary routines. However, some parents still overload their children’s meals with large amounts of sugar. He noted that this practice may create serious health challenges in the future.
Egemba also highlighted cultural beliefs that influence feeding habits in many Nigerian homes. Some parents often associate chubby children with good health and family prosperity. Meanwhile, slim children are sometimes wrongly perceived as unhealthy or neglected.
He explained that this mindset encourages parents to overfeed children. Consequently, they unknowingly expose their children to unhealthy eating patterns.
The health advocate further noted that children consume sugar through everyday foods and snacks. These include sugary drinks, chocolates, and processed snacks packed in school lunchboxes. Additionally, meals like pap are sometimes mixed with large quantities of sugar.
Dr Chinonso Egemba warned that the effects of excessive sugar may not appear immediately. Nevertheless, internal organs may already experience pressure despite a child appearing healthy.
He therefore advised parents to reduce sugar intake, practise portion control, and provide fruits as snacks. Furthermore, he encouraged parents to promote outdoor play and regular exercise for healthier children.
