Carmién » News »

The Global Sugar Problem: Health, sugar taxes, and why rooibos is an ideal alternative

The Global Sugar Problem: Health, sugar taxes, and why rooibos is an ideal alternative

17 September 2025

Excerpt:

Too much sugar drives global health risks, pushing governments to tax sugary drinks. Rooibos offers a naturally sugar-free, antioxidant-rich alternative—supporting hydration, blood sugar balance, and healthier daily choices without added costs.

09162025_Carmien_SA_blog_banner_ Blog Sep week 3

Too much added sugar is harming people around the world. It is linked to weight gain, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, fatty liver disease and tooth decay (Harvard Health, 2022; Ma et al., 2022). Sugar-sweetened drinks are a massive driver because liquid sugar is absorbed quickly, spikes blood sugar and does not make you feel full, so you end up drinking more (Harvard Health, 2022). There is a global health crisis with correlations strongly linked to sugar. Aside from the health risks associated with over-consumption, there is also a massive cost implication that comes with buying sugary goods. Rooibos is an ideal alternative to sugary drinks, offering numerous health benefits that may help combat diseases linked to sugar intake. Aside from being healthy, this article looks at several other reasons why you should integrate rooibos into your daily routine.

Countries are Taxing Sugary Drinks to Protect Health

To cut sugar intake, many governments now tax sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs). More than 100 countries and territories have national SSB taxes and over 130 jurisdictions worldwide have some form of sugary drink tax when you include subnational policies (World Bank, 2025; Obesity Evidence Hub, 2025).

These taxes are showing real-world impact. In Mexico, purchases of taxed drinks fell by about 6% in the first year, with larger drops by year-end and among lower-income households (Colchero et al., 2016). In the United Kingdom, the Soft Drinks Industry Levy led to big reformulation, with an average 46% cut in sugar in levy-scope soft drinks between 2015 and 2020 and measurable reductions in sugar bought from drinks (HM Treasury/HMRC, 2024; Cobiac et al., 2024). In South Africa, the Health Promotion Levy has reduced purchases of sugary beverages and continues to be strengthened in public debate, with researchers calling for at least a 20% rate to save lives (Wits, 2021; Wits, 2025).

In July 2025, the World Health Organization launched its “3 by 35” initiative, urging countries to raise the real prices of sugary drinks, alcohol and tobacco by at least 50% by 2035 to curb chronic disease and boost health funding (WHO, 2025).

Although the changes in these policies are for the greater good, sugary drinks and indulgences are quickly becoming unaffordable for many around the world. As more and more people become increasingly aware of their well-being and look to live a healthier lifestyle, alternatives like rooibos-based drinks are becoming appealing.

A Simple Daily Action: Switch your drink

Your daily choices matter most when it comes to looking after yourself. Here’s an easy win: swap sugary or sugar-free soft drinks for rooibos. Rooibos is naturally caffeine-free and sugar-free. It hydrates well and have a naturally sweet taste, so it is great hot or cold. Importantly, rooibos contains unique antioxidants, including aspalathin, which is found almost exclusively in rooibos (Bond & Derbyshire, 2020). Early human evidence and laboratory studies suggest rooibos can improve antioxidant status and may support healthier blood sugar control (Afrifa et al., 2023; Bond & Derbyshire, 2020).

If you want more flavour without added sugar, try these easy add-ins:

  • Slices of orange, lemon or apple
  • A few fresh berries
  • Mint leaves or a cinnamon stick
  • Ginger slices

These give gentle sweetness and aroma from whole foods, not sugar.

Choosing Carmién

At Carmién, we make the switch simple and enjoyable. Our rooibos is grown in the Cederberg region of South Africa with full crop-to-cup traceability and robust certifications and our blends are crafted for function and taste. We champion healthier, lower-sugar living through practical, everyday products and delicious flavour combinations. Our product formulations are intentional, developed to support everyday health for everyone.

The Bottom Line

The global sugar problem is real and sugary drinks play a big role (Harvard Health, 2022; Ma et al., 2022). Governments are acting with taxes that push down sugar and encourage better products (Colchero et al., 2016; HM Treasury/HMRC, 2024; Wits, 2025; WHO, 2025). Your best next step is simple: make rooibos your daily drink. It is naturally caffeine-free and sugar-free, tastes great hot or cold and offers antioxidant support, with promising research on blood sugar control (Afrifa et al., 2023; Bond & Derbyshire, 2020). For an easy guide on rooibos and blood sugar, read our blog Rooibos and Diabetes: A Naturally Supportive Choice (Carmién Tea, 2025).

References