Health Risks Associated with Overindulgence in Sweets During Eid al-Fitr
Experts warn that excessive consumption of traditional sweets can lead to various health issues among children.
As Eid al-Fitr approaches, children often celebrate with an abundance of traditional sweets, leading pediatric specialist Dr. Abir Khayat to issue warnings regarding the health risks associated with overconsumption.
She emphasizes that true joy stems from maintaining children's health rather than compromising it through excessive sugar intake.
Dr. Khayat identifies several common health issues that may arise from the overconsumption of sweets, including: abdominal pain and cramps due to overeating; diarrhea or constipation resulting from large quantities of sugar and fats present in these confections; dental caries, particularly when oral hygiene is lacking; mood swings and sudden bursts of energy, followed by feelings of fatigue or lethargy; weight gain along with appetite problems following the holiday.
The pediatric specialist notes that consuming excessive amounts of sweets can lead to digestive disturbances, sudden increases in activity levels followed by fatigue, and an adverse impact on immunity due to high sugar levels, which can result in bothersome symptoms that detract from the festive atmosphere of Eid for children.
In light of these concerns, Dr. Khayat recommends moderation in the consumption of sweets, suggesting that traditional homemade sweets containing nuts or dates with minimal sugar are acceptable.
She advocates for serving sweets as part of balanced meals and in moderate amounts, while advising parents to avoid commercially prepared sweets that often contain high levels of added sugars, artificial colors, preservatives, or trans fats.
Parents are encouraged to select high-quality, nutritious options and to serve them in small portions.
Engaging children in alternative activities such as drawing or group games can help divert their attention from sweets.
Additionally, parents are urged not to associate sweets with rewards and to offer water and fiber-rich foods instead.
Dr. Khayat emphasizes that while Eid is a time for joy, true happiness begins with good health, ensuring children remain energetic and happy, free from the pains and health issues that can mar this joyful occasion.
She emphasizes that true joy stems from maintaining children's health rather than compromising it through excessive sugar intake.
Dr. Khayat identifies several common health issues that may arise from the overconsumption of sweets, including: abdominal pain and cramps due to overeating; diarrhea or constipation resulting from large quantities of sugar and fats present in these confections; dental caries, particularly when oral hygiene is lacking; mood swings and sudden bursts of energy, followed by feelings of fatigue or lethargy; weight gain along with appetite problems following the holiday.
The pediatric specialist notes that consuming excessive amounts of sweets can lead to digestive disturbances, sudden increases in activity levels followed by fatigue, and an adverse impact on immunity due to high sugar levels, which can result in bothersome symptoms that detract from the festive atmosphere of Eid for children.
In light of these concerns, Dr. Khayat recommends moderation in the consumption of sweets, suggesting that traditional homemade sweets containing nuts or dates with minimal sugar are acceptable.
She advocates for serving sweets as part of balanced meals and in moderate amounts, while advising parents to avoid commercially prepared sweets that often contain high levels of added sugars, artificial colors, preservatives, or trans fats.
Parents are encouraged to select high-quality, nutritious options and to serve them in small portions.
Engaging children in alternative activities such as drawing or group games can help divert their attention from sweets.
Additionally, parents are urged not to associate sweets with rewards and to offer water and fiber-rich foods instead.
Dr. Khayat emphasizes that while Eid is a time for joy, true happiness begins with good health, ensuring children remain energetic and happy, free from the pains and health issues that can mar this joyful occasion.
Translation:
Translated by AI
