Sale of sugary drinks spikes during Ramadan

Retailers in Qatar have reported a significant increase in sales of sweet syrups and fruit squashes, as they are a favourite for people breaking their fast during the month of Ramadan. Last year, Nichol’s, the company that produces Vimto, a concentrated fruit squash, recorded profit increases from outside the UK of around 38%, largely attributed to sales in the Middle East in the month before Ramadan, according to UK newspaper The Telegraph. Foreign sales account for around 16% of the company’s revenue. Other popular drinks made from powder or concentrate include Sunquick, Tang, and any number of flavoured syrups. Many powdered drinks have sugar added to them before serving, although they are already sweetened. Medical experts recommend consuming only moderate amount of sugar to break the fast during Ramadan, as it can assist with the digestive process. However, Dr Ramadan at the Doha Clinic advises against a dramatic intake of sugar as the pancreas will not be able to neutralise the sudden increase in sugar level. He also recommends an increased water intake during Iftar to reduce the concentration of sugar. Dr Ramadan also warned that those with a family history of diabetes should take care not to consume too much sugar as it can hasten the onset of the disease. He also issued a similar warning to those over the age of 50. Those with diabetes should only fast after consulting with their doctor, and should monitor their blood sugar levels closely. Consuming sugary drinks can lead to sudden spikes in blood sugar, which can be dangerous for those with diabetes. Dr Ramadan recommends at least 45 minutes of exercise per day in order to control blood-sugar levels. Before beginning the daily fast, doctors recommend fibre-rich foods that are digested slowly including bran, cereals, whole wheat, grains and seeds, vegetables such as green beans and almost all fruit, including apricots, dates, prunes and figs. Sugary drinks consumed before the fast can provide a quick source of energy, but leave the body depleted soon after. The Vimto product available in the Middle East is in fact a more concentrated version of the drink available in the UK. As doctors advise those fasting to consume more water and only moderate amounts of sugar at Iftar, it is recommended that smaller amounts of the squash be used when mixing with water. As for drinks that already have sugar added, adding more sugar simply is not necessary and goes against the recommendations of experts to eat and drink healthily during the Ramadan.