Mahama urges Ghanaians to cut sugar, avoid late-night meals

President John Dramani Mahama has urged Ghanaians to curb their sugar consumption and refrain from eating heavy meals late at night, warning that these habits significantly raise the risk of developing diabetes and other health complications. During his "Resetting Ghana" tour in the Volta region, President Mahama addressed residents, advising those who identify as having a "sweet tooth" to exercise caution. "We must eat less sugar. For those of us who say we have a sweet tooth, you better be careful because it is a passport to diabetes," he stated. The President further linked excessive sugar intake to cancer, recalling insights from a visit to the Sweden Ghana Cancer Centre. He explained that doctors use sugar to preserve tissue samples during biopsies because cancer cells thrive on it. "I asked why they put sugar in the solution, and they said it is because cancer loves sugar. So sugar is a trigger for cancer," he said. Emphasizing moderation, Mahama also recommended reducing carbohydrate intake, noting that excess carbohydrates are converted to fat if not used for energy. He specifically cautioned against consuming substantial meals late in the evening, particularly after 7 p.m. Traditional dishes like banku, akple, and fufu, he advised, are better suited for daytime consumption. "For those who come home late and ask for a big bowl of akple with fetri detsi or banku, you are killing yourself slowly. Eat those meals in the afternoon. At night, have something light," he urged. The President encouraged individuals to complete their meals by 7 p.m. and to avoid going to bed immediately afterward. Instead, he advised remaining active for a period to aid digestion and promote a healthier lifestyle.

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We must eat less sugar. For those of us who say we have a sweet tooth, you better be careful because it is a passport to diabetes.