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Published: November 21, 2025 06:59 PM IST
Sago is not as harmless as it seems. Dr. Shubham Vatsya warns that it is high in starch, increases blood sugar and may harm diabetics or overweight individuals.
Sago, a staple food during fasting and often considered a light, healthy food, is widely eaten throughout India. Loved for its versatility in dishes like khichdi and vada, many believe it to be harmless. However, Dr Shubham Vatsya, gastroenterologist and hepatologist, Fortis Hospital, Vasant Kunj, Delhi, has called it a ‘scam’, warning that its high starch content may contribute to health problems. (Also read: Cardiologist with 40 years of experience shares the best ‘morning drink’ to start your day; Reveals its amazing benefits ,
Is sago really as healthy as we think?
“Parents may not like this, but sago is not as harmless as it seems,” says Dr. Shubham in his November 20 Instagram post. “Under the guise of this ‘sago’, we are essentially consuming refined sugar. Medically speaking, sago is not a superfood. It is pure starch, derived from the cassava root, consisting of about 90% carbohydrates, with almost zero protein, fiber or vitamins.”
“Sago has a high glycemic index of over 70, which causes an almost instant rise in blood sugar. Repeated consumption can affect insulin levels,” says Dr Vatsya.
Can sago be safe when consumed properly?
However, he added that sago can be balanced with smart combinations. “If you combine it with curd, peanuts and lots of vegetables, these combinations can help balance the glycemic load of sago,” he explains.
But Dr. Vatsya cautions that some groups need to take extra precautions. “If you are diabetic or overweight, eating sago regularly can be harmful to your health,” he says.
(Also Read: Fitness coach with 17 years of experience shares 5 simple actions to help you lose weight in the last six weeks of 2025)
Note to readers: This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
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