In a timely initiative to raise nutritional awareness among young minds, the St John Ambulance, Goa State Branch (SJAG) conducted an educational session at St Mary’s Convent High School, Mapusa, focused on the theme: “Reducing or eliminating added sugars from the diet and focusing on nutrient-dense whole foods.”
Addressing students from Standards VIII and IX, Jovito Lopes, Secretary General of SJAG, emphasized the harmful effects of added sugars and the importance of replacing them with natural alternatives found in fruits, vegetables, dairy, and whole foods.
“Naturally occurring sugars like fructose and lactose provide essential nutrients and fiber, whereas added sugars offer only empty calories,” said Lopes, warning students against processed foods and sugary beverages.
The session covered:
- Differentiating between natural sugars and added sugars (like high-fructose corn syrup, table sugar, syrups).
- Understanding how added sugars can lead to serious health conditions like obesity, Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and MASLD (Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease).
- The recommended sugar limits:
- Men: max 9 teaspoons/day
- Women: max 6 teaspoons/day
- Children under 18: max 5 teaspoons/day
- Children under 2: ideally no added sugar
Lopes explained how packaged foods often disguise added sugars under different names like maltose, dextrose, molasses, and HFCS, making it harder for consumers—especially children and parents—to identify unhealthy choices.
Students were encouraged to:
- Avoid sugary drinks and processed snacks
- Opt for whole foods: fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy, lean proteins, healthy fats
- Stay hydrated with clean water (preferably not stored in plastic)
- Practice DIY healthy snacking over ready-made junk foods
- Maintain balanced meals and a positive attitude towards food
The session also addressed the broader aspects of optimal health, including the roles of sleep, exercise, mental wellness, relationships, gratitude, and emotional balance.
The programme was made engaging and relatable through a PowerPoint presentation, coordinated by Sister Joy AC, Ashwini Morajkar, Royston D’Souza, and organized by Sionora Pinto, under the leadership of Principal Sister Snehala AC.
Key Message:
Food is fuel. It should bring joy, not harm. By reducing added sugar and embracing real, whole foods, today’s students can become tomorrow’s healthy leaders.
Discover more from Allycaral
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
