CBSE Takes Action: New Initiative to Curb Children's Sugar Intake
New Guidelines from CBSE to Combat Rising Diabetes in Children
New Delhi: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has instructed its affiliated schools to set up 'sugar boards' aimed at monitoring and reducing the sugar consumption among students, as reported by officials.
In recent years, the CBSE has observed a troubling rise in Type 2 diabetes cases among children, a condition that was predominantly seen in adults until now.
This concerning trend is primarily linked to high sugar consumption, largely due to the easy access to sugary snacks, drinks, and processed foods available in school settings. Excessive sugar intake not only heightens the risk of diabetes but also leads to obesity, dental issues, and various metabolic disorders, adversely affecting children's long-term health and academic success, according to a letter sent to school principals.
Research shows that children aged four to ten years derive 13% of their daily caloric intake from sugar, while those aged 11 to 18 years consume about 15%, significantly surpassing the recommended limit of 5%.
The CBSE highlighted that the widespread availability of sugary snacks and drinks in schools is a major contributor to this excessive sugar consumption.
The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), established under the Commission for Protection of Child Rights (CPCR) Act of 2005, aims to safeguard the rights of children, particularly those who are vulnerable and marginalized.
Schools are now required to create 'sugar boards' that will display information to educate students about the dangers of high sugar intake.
These boards should include vital information such as the recommended daily sugar intake, sugar content in commonly consumed unhealthy foods (like junk food and soft drinks), health risks associated with high sugar consumption, and healthier dietary options. This initiative aims to empower students to make informed food choices and promote long-term health benefits.
Additionally, schools are encouraged to conduct awareness seminars and workshops on this topic.
The board has requested that schools submit a brief report along with photographs by July 15.