The Ministry of Health reported that consuming sodas and “juices” can reduce a person's life by up to 10 years. Furthermore, this habit is responsible for one in three new diabetes cases in Mexico. Therefore, the department called for reducing the intake of sugary drinks during New Year's Eve dinners, when reheating food, and during the Day of the Kings gatherings. Instead, it is recommended to opt for natural waters, such as those made with hibiscus (jamaica) or seasonal fruits. In an official statement, the Ministry of Health warned that medical studies show that habitual and excessive consumption of sugary drinks can cause people to lose up to 10 years of healthy life, as the excess of these sweet beverages translates into serious complications like kidney damage or diabetes. The General Director of Public Health Policies, Daniel Aceves Villagrán, added that one in three new diabetes cases and one in seven new cardiovascular disease cases in Mexico are a consequence of the immoderate consumption of sodas and “artificial juices.” Aceves warned that consuming diet drinks is not healthy either, as these products alter the intestinal flora. He reiterated the proposal to replace sodas and sugary drinks with natural options like unsweetened waters prepared with pieces of fresh seasonal fruits (such as lemon, orange, guava, or lime slices) or aromatic herbs (mint, spearmint, or rosemary). He also recommended teas or infusions of hibiscus, cinnamon, dried fruits, or citrus, preferably unsweetened. In this context, he recalled that the Mexican standard for Front-of-Package Labeling of Food and Beverages (NOM-051) mandates the mandatory use of precautionary warnings such as “excess of sugars” and “excess of calories” to alert consumers to the danger posed by sodas and “fake juices.” The official acknowledged that despite campaigns and new regulations in this area, Mexico remains one of the countries with the highest soda consumption in the world. Official studies indicate that a Mexican drinks an average of 166 liters of soda per year, which means they consume almost half a liter daily. Finally, the head of the DGPSP stated that reducing soda consumption helps with proper hydration, prevents cavities and early diabetes in children, aids in weight control in adults, and improves blood pressure, reducing the risk of falls and other complications.
