Drink 3-in-1 beverages moderately

People must control the intake of 3-in-1 beverages as over-consumption may have a negative impact on their health, according to a nutrition expert.

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

"If they consume the product once in a while, it is all right.

"However, if they come this 3-in-1 beverage five to six times a day, there will be a problem," he said during an interview with Zulkifli Bujang in the Kerusi Panas programme aired on Bernama Radio 24.

Roslee said educating the public on sugar intake remained a difficult task despite various public awareness campaigns mounted by the government and private sector.

"Nevertheless, those who are already aware of the need to reduce sugar intake have switched to a better consumption pattern. Previously, ordering a teh tarik with less sugar, or drinking plain tea, was unheard of, but now it is a normal thing."

Roslee also advised those whose parents or other family members had a history of diabetes, to control their sugar intake and adopt a healthy diet. This would help them to reduce the risk of developing the disease.

"Diabetes is mainly genetic but we cannot blame it on our parents, if they are diabetic, as we all have the ability to change our lifestyle, by choosing a healthy diet and exercising more."