The Sugar Trap: How Hidden Sugars Fuelling NCDs?

Sugar is a form of carbohydrate, a nutrient that provides us with energy. With over 100 different names, it remains hidden in the foods we consume daily. The dangers of excessive sugar intake are still unknown to many. Many of us in the speed of our lives unknowingly consume far more sugar than we realise and not from just spooning it into our tea, but from hidden sugars lurking in everyday foods.

As a registered dietitian, certified diabetes educator and patient advocate, I see first-hand how this “sugar trap” is quietly fuelling a rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) particularly type 2 diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and fatty liver disease. In Trinidad and Tobago, the leading causes of death are NCDs notably heart disease and diabetes.

Hidden sugars, also called added sugars, are often found in processed foods such as salad dressings, breads, breakfast cereals, flavoured yoghurts, sauces, and even so-called “healthy” snacks like granola bars and low-fat products. These sugars are added during manufacturing to enhance taste and shelf life, but they contribute empty calories with no nutritional value.

Over time, regular consumption of hidden sugars leads to insulin resistance, where the body no longer uses insulin effectively. This is a key driver of type 2 diabetes. Excess sugar is also stored as fat in the liver, raising triglyceride levels and increasing the risk of heart disease.

Perhaps most alarming is that many individuals are unaware of how much sugar they are actually consuming. A single bottle of sweetened iced tea, a flavoured yoghurt or even a juice drink may contain more sugar than the recommended daily limit.

The World Health Organization advises no more than 6 teaspoons (25 grams) of added sugar per day for women and children, and no more than 9 teaspoons (38 grams) for men. Many exceed this without realising it.

As a preventative step, I advise the public to become sugar-smart:

• Read nutrition labels carefully, watching for ingredients like high fructose corn syrup, cane sugar, glucose, and sucrose and be mindful of the many other names for sugar.

• Choose whole foods over processed ones. Fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins offer natural nutrition without the sugar overload.

• Limit sugary drinks, opting instead for water, herbal teas, or naturally flavoured water.

  
  

Addressing hidden sugar intake is a vital part of the fight against NCDs. Awareness, education, and mindful choices can empower individuals to take control of their health—one meal at a time.

About the Writer:

Nandani Samuel

Registered Dietitian, Diabetes Educator (IDF)

BSc RD, Dip ICDN, ADV, RN, DE

Nandani Samuel is a passionate Registered Dietitian, Certified Diabetes Educator (IDF), and the President and Founder of the Health and Nutrition Association of Trinidad and Tobago (HNATT). A proud graduate of the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus,

Nandani has spent over five years advancing public health through clinical practice, corporate wellness, and community nutrition education.

Her work spans private consultancy at Rainbow Nutrition and key roles in national nutrition programmes with the Ministry of Health, NCRHA, and National Schools Dietary Services.

 As a leader, advocate, and author, she is committed to empowering individuals and communities to adopt sustainable, culturally grounded health practices—nourishing the nation one meal, one mindset, and one policy at a time.