Teh tarik, a beloved beverage in both Singapore and Malaysia, holds a special place in the hearts of locals due to its delightful combination of sweet and frothy textures.
This traditional pulled milk tea is the go-to choice regardless of the weather – be it sunny or rainy.
However, the charm of this beloved drink comes with a caveat: its high sugar content, which poses a significant risk to health, potentially leading to conditions like diabetes.
The Allure of Teh Tarik
Teh tarik’s popularity can be attributed to its unique preparation method, where the tea is “pulled” from one cup to another, creating a frothy top that enhances the flavor and mouthfeel. This local favorite has found its way into the daily routines of many, becoming a staple in many households and local eateries.
While the taste of teh tarik is undeniably enchanting, the high sugar content in each cup raises concerns about its impact on health. Excessive sugar consumption has been linked to various health issues, with diabetes being one of the most prevalent and concerning outcomes.
A Cautionary Tale
A poignant TikTok video shared by @kedidi_kakipalsu shed light on the real-life consequences of excessive teh tarik consumption. The video featured Azlan, a man in Malaysia who battled diabetes for over three decades, eventually leading to the amputation of his right foot.
Azlan’s story reveals how his love for teh tarik became an everyday habit. He confessed to consuming at least three cups of teh tarik each day, a habit that started in his younger years. His attachment to this beverage was so strong that he carried it in his car at all times, ensuring he never ran out.
Azlan’s health struggles weren’t solely tied to his teh tarik consumption. He also confessed to regularly consuming carbonated drinks like Coca-Cola, further compounding his sugar intake. Irregular eating patterns, often indulging in mamak meals with friends during the early hours, contributed to his deteriorating health.
The Grim Outcome
Azlan’s battle with diabetes took a severe turn when he noticed his wounds were taking longer to heal. Despite medical intervention, his wounds worsened and became infected. Eventually, his doctor delivered a devastating verdict: his right foot had to be amputated to prevent further complications.
He said that he was told that he had no choice but to ampuiitate his right foot, which he did.
@kedidi_kakipalsu Abang Azlan share tabiat dia masa muda.Umur 45 dia kata dah start nampak kesan.Perlu kaki palsu tapi tak mampu? boleh hubungi kami.Moga bermanfaat #diabetes #kencingmanis #kedidikakipalsu #amputeeinfo ♬ original sound – kedidikakipalsu