BANGKOK, Thailand – The Department of Health has introduced a new standard for “normal sweetness,” reducing it from 100 percent to 50 percent to promote healthier beverage choices and reduce the risks associated with excessive sugar consumption.
On February 11, the Department of Health announced that the updated guideline aims to improve public health by halving the sugar content of beverages. This change is designed to reduce the risk of overweight conditions and non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
The Department also noted that reducing sugar intake benefits both skin and overall physical health. Choosing 50 percent sweetness can slow premature skin aging, support stable blood sugar for better concentration and reduced fatigue, and help decrease abdominal fat and water retention.
The Department added that reducing sweetness restores natural taste sensitivity, making less-sweet foods more enjoyable. Lower sugar intake also reduces strain on the liver and pancreas, supporting metabolism and lowering future risks of fatty liver disease and diabetes.
The Department explained that taste receptors for sweetness renew in about 14 days. It is normal to feel less satisfied at first, but maintaining reduced sweetness for over 10 days can make healthier choices easier to sustain. (NNT)
