Thailand is taking note of the impact of excessive sugar on public health. Thus, its Department of Health has updated guidelines for beverage sugar content, defining “normal sweetness” as 50% instead of the previous 100%. The change aims to encourage healthier drink choices and reduce the risks associated with high sugar consumption.

Announced on February 11, 2026, the new guideline is intended to help prevent overweight conditions and non-communicable diseases. The Department highlighted that lowering sugar intake can improve overall health, including skin health. Drinks with half the usual sweetness may slow premature aging, support stable blood sugar for better focus and reduced fatigue, and help reduce abdominal fat and water retention.

Reducing sweetness can also restore natural taste sensitivity, making less-sweet foods more enjoyable. It eases strain on the liver and pancreas, supports metabolism, and lowers the risk of future conditions such as fatty liver disease and diabetes.

Taste receptors for sweetness adjust in about two weeks. While drinks may feel less satisfying at first, maintaining the lower sugar level for more than 10 days can make healthier choices easier to stick with.