A number of doctors in Kunduz say that excessive consumption of sweets among women is causing various illnesses. These doctors emphasize that overconsumption of sugary foods disrupts hormonal balance in women and may increase male hormone levels.
Zakia Miakhil, an obstetrics and gynecology specialist in Kunduz, told Salam Watandar that women should exercise caution in consuming sugar and sweets to avoid developing various illnesses.
“Women should not consume more than 25 grams of sugar per day, equivalent to six teaspoons. This amount includes sugars found in jam, cakes, cookies, and soft drinks. Elevated sugar levels in the body increase the risk of obesity, diabetes, hormonal disorders, and heart disease.” she said.
Amina Musa Zai, another obstetrics and gynecology specialist in Kunduz, said, “Excessive sugar consumption can raise insulin levels, which in turn disrupts the balance of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. During pregnancy, this can increase the risk of gestational diabetes. A diet high in sugar may also increase inflammation in the body and impair uterine function.”
Meanwhile, Diba Anwari, chief physician at the Mother and Child Health Hospital, warned that excessive consumption of sugar and sweets, along with poor dietary habits, can weaken women’s immune systems and lead to numerous illnesses.
“Reducing excessive sugar intake should be done gradually. Instead of stopping suddenly, it is better to decrease consumption step by step so the body can adjust. Healthier alternatives such as fresh or unsweetened dried fruits, dates, honey, eggs, nuts, vegetables, and drinking water can serve as suitable substitutes.” she said.
Religious scholars also consider excessive consumption of sweets to be religiously inappropriate and sinful because it harms the body. They emphasize that women should be aware of their reproductive health and maintain physical balance.
Nasratullah Sahebi, a religious scholar in Kunduz, said, “In Islamic teachings, there is a principle that one should neither harm others nor oneself. God clearly states in the Quran that a person should not harm their own body and soul… and neglecting one’s health is considered sinful.”
However, some women in Kunduz say that due to a lack of awareness about the consequences of excessive sweet consumption, they have suffered different health problems. Bahara, a 19-year-old resident of Kunduz, said that because of her personal preference, she consumed sweets more than other foods and was unaware of the consequences.
“I enjoyed eating sweets, sugar, chocolate, and anything sweet. But now, because of that excessive habit, I suffer from health problems such as diabetes, toothaches, and obesity. Although I am still young, I am often ill and under medical treatment. I advise girls and mothers not to consume too many sweets and not to allow their children to eat excessive amounts of sugary foods so they do not face the same fate as me.” she said.
Marziya, a 38-year-old resident of Kunduz, also described her experience with excessive sweet consumption and lack of awareness.
“During pregnancy and even before that I was too interested in sweets. I consumed large amounts of sugar, cookies, jalebi (a kind of sweet), soft drinks, and other sweet foods. Now I suffer from uterine pain and infertility, and even my daughter has dental problems. I urge all women that even if they enjoy sweets, they should consume them in moderation so they do not suffer as I have.” she said.
It is worth noting that excessive consumption of sweets not only threatens women’s health but can also lead to serious diseases.
Reporter: Maryam Muqaddas
