Sri Lankans are consuming more sugar than the recommended amount, the Sri Lanka Dental Association (SLDA) has warned.
Consultant dental surgeon Nilantha Ratnayake, Assistant Secretary of the SLDA, revealed that the average Sri Lankan consumes around 34 kilograms of sugar per year—more than three times the 10-kilogram limit recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Excessive sugar consumption is a major contributor to tooth decay and cavities. The issue is further aggravated by poor oral hygiene practices, with only 50 percent of Sri Lankans brushing their teeth twice daily. Ratnayake emphasized.
Experts recommend cutting back on sugary products and opting for healthier alternatives such as honey and fruits to mitigate the risks associated with excessive sugar consumption.