The public must control the intake of 3-in-1 beverages as over-consumption may bring about negative impact to their health, according to a nutrition expert.

Lecturer in the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) Dr Roslee Rajikan said this was because consumers would not be able to control their sugar intake when consuming 3-in-1 beverages as compared with other beverages prepared in the traditional way.

"If they only consume the product once in a while, then, I think it's okay, but if consumed five to six times a day, there will be a problem," he said when interviewed by Zulkifli Bujang in the Kerusi Panas programme aired on Bernama Radio 24.

Dr Roslee said to educate the public on sugar intake remains a difficult task despite various public awareness campaigns mounted by the government and private sector.

"Nevertheless, those who are already aware of the importance to reduce sugar intake had somehow switched to a better intake pattern. To order a less-sugar teh tarik (pulled tea) or plain tea was once very uncommon among the people, but now, it's quite a normal thing," he said.

Dr Roslee also advised individuals whose parents or other family members had a history of diabetes, to really control their sugar intake and practice a healthy diet, to reduce their risk of similar illness.

"Diabetes is mainly genetic but we cannot blame our parents (who are diabetics) since we have all the ability to change our lifestyle, especially in managing a healthy diet and exercising more," he added.

Source : Bernama