Indian boxer Priya Ghanghas recently revealed that she completely gave up sweets to maintain her weight class before winning gold at the 2026 Commonwealth Games. Dietitians weigh in on the benefits and potential pitfalls of a strict no-sugar regimen for elite athletes.
Key Takeaways
- Boxer Priya Ghanghas completely gave up sweets to manage her weight before winning Commonwealth gold.
- Experts warn that simply cutting out sugar does not guarantee improved athletic performance; overall diet quality matters.
- The myth of "sugar-free" products is debunked, as they can still be highly processed and calorie-dense.
Indian boxer Priya Ghanghas, who secured a phenomenal gold medal in the women’s 60kg category at the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow, recently opened up about the intense discipline required to maintain her weight class. "Boxing has a lot of weight issues. So, I had given up on sweets. But now, I will eat. Jalebis and ghewar as it’s in season," she told ANI. Her revelation highlights the massive sacrifices athletes make behind the scenes to achieve podium glory.
Intrigued by her dietary discipline, we consulted nutrition experts to understand how a no-sugar approach impacts athletic performance. Dt Amreen Sheikh, chief dietitian at KIMS Hospitals Thane, emphasized that while reducing added sugar is beneficial for overall metabolic health, a blanket ban on all sugars can be counterproductive. Athletes require high-quality carbohydrates to replenish glycogen stores and facilitate muscle recovery post-exercise.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that weight-category athletes often operate on razor-thin margins, making them susceptible to extreme dietary restrictions. Without structured guidance, cutting out essential carbohydrates under the guise of eliminating "sugar" can lead to chronic fatigue, decreased endurance, and a higher risk of injury, ultimately hindering performance rather than helping it.
| Nutrient Source | Natural Sugars (Fruits/Dairy) | Added Sugars (Sodas/Sweets) |
|---|---|---|
| Nutritional Value | High (Vitamins, Minerals, Fiber) | Low (Empty Calories) |
| Energy Release | Slow and Sustained | Rapid Spike and Crash |
"A balanced and sustainable way of eating is much more effective for long-term weight control than cutting out sugar entirely."
Sheikh also debunked the widespread consumer myth surrounding "sugar-free" labels. Many packaged items marketed as healthy alternatives are actually highly processed, packed with unhealthy fats, refined starches, and artificial additives. Instead of falling for marketing gimmicks, individuals and athletes alike should focus on whole foods in their natural state—such as lean proteins, whole grains, healthy fats, and fresh produce.
Historical Background
The history of combat sports like boxing is replete with stories of extreme weight-cutting measures, including severe dehydration and starvation diets. Over the last few decades, sports science has evolved dramatically. Today, modern trainers and nutritionists advocate for scientific calorie management and periodized nutrition, moving away from dangerous crash diets toward sustainable, performance-enhancing eating plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Should athletes completely avoid all forms of sugar?
A1: No. Athletes should avoid added and processed sugars found in sodas and confectionery, but natural sugars found in fruits and dairy are essential for sustained energy and recovery.
Q2: Are "sugar-free" packaged foods a healthy alternative?
A2: Not necessarily. Many "sugar-free" products are heavily processed and contain high amounts of unhealthy fats or chemical sweeteners that may not align with fitness goals.
