Say 'no' to sugar-free items: Docs

"Anything that tastes sweet should be avoided by diabetics, as one never knows what kind of sugar-free products they are using in it," said Dr Sonali Bosane, a diabetologist in the city.u00a0

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She was supported by Dr Ramesh Godbole, secretary of Diabetic Association of India, Pune branch, who pointed that people can take sugar-free tablets or drops, but under guidance of a doctor.

Else the fat content in one's body may increase, leading to cardiac problems.u00a0World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that nearly 200 million people all over the world suffer from diabetes, and this number is likely to double soon. In India, there are nearly 50 million diabetics.

Dr Vaman Khadilkar, diabetologist at Jehangir Hospital, pointed out, "The sugar-free tablets are a big ‘no' for children below 18 years of age. In fact some of these tablets are labeled, ‘not for kids'.

These tablets increase the fat content in the body and may lead to heart problems. Sugar-free sweets and drinks should be avoided too."

Godbole concluded that precaution is the best way to control this problem. Measures would include exercise, proper diet and regular check-up.

Bosane observed that diabetes is a lifestyle disease, and pointed out that the number of patients in Pune is increasing at greater rate than in Mumbai.

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Approx no of diabetics in Indiau00a0