UDA Refutes Claims Linking Staple Foods to Diabetes Spike

The Uganda Diabetes Association (UDA) has strongly refuted a recent newspaper article that claimed staple Ugandan foods such as matooke and kalo are contributing to a rise in diabetes cases in the country.

In a formal statement issued on Wednesday, the UDA described the article — published by New Vision on July 30 under the headline “Staple foods causing diabetes” — as “grossly erroneous” and “scientifically unsubstantiated.”

“Singling out staple foods such as matooke and kalo as the cause of rising diabetes rates in Uganda, without any compelling scientific evidence, is not only misinforming but also alarmist and sensationalist,” the statement read.

The association emphasized that the article relied solely on a qualitative study by Dr. Juliet Kiguli and colleagues, which focused on the social norms influencing individual behavior — not on a direct scientific link between local foods and diabetes onset.

The UDA highlighted that credible scientific evidence points instead to a strong association between diabetes and increased intake of highly processed foods — such as chips, sugar, soda, white rice, and processed snacks — all of which have high glycaemic indices that trigger sharp spikes in blood sugar.

“Most of the staple foods consumed in Uganda — matooke, sweet potatoes, yams, cassava (if not in flour form)* — have a low or moderate glycaemic index and, therefore, do not cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels,” the UDA clarified.

The association encouraged the public to consume such traditional foods in moderation, paired with other nutrient-rich options, as part of a healthy diet.

UDA also called on the media to play a responsible role in disseminating accurate health information, especially regarding chronic conditions like diabetes that affect many Ugandans.

“We implore the editorial team of New Vision to review the article and publish a corrected version based on available scientific evidence and consultations with diabetes and nutrition experts in the country,” the statement urged.

Signed by Dr. William Lumu (President), Dr. Davis Kibirige, Dr. Susan Nakireka, and Ms. Edith Mukantwari, the UDA’s executive committee reiterated its commitment to diabetes awareness, prevention, and care across Uganda.