Introduction: Sugar is widely consumed and excessive intake has been associated
with increased risk of weight gain, diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular diseases,
leading to metabolic syndrome (MetSyn). However, the association between sugar
intake and MetSyn has seldom been studied among multi-ethnic Malaysian older
adults.
Methods: A total of 1,057 respondents aged ≥60 years were recruited through
multistage random sampling from selected states. Anthropometric parameters, blood
pressure, blood test for sugar and lipid profile were determined. Dietary intake was
derived using a 7-day dietary history questionnaire (DHQ) and a semi-quantitative
food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) for added sugar intake.
Results: Prevalence of
MetSyn was 39.9%, 30.9% and 42.2% using the harmonised definition, International
Diabetes Federation (IDF) and National Cholesterol Education Program’s Adult
Treatment Panel III (NCEP-ATPIII) definitions respectively. Mean total sugar intake
was 40.5±32.0 g (8 tsp) and added sugar intake was 33.0±31.0 g (6 tsp). Excessive
added sugar consumption at 100th percentile increased risks of high total cholesterol
by two-fold (p