Consuming sweetened beverages might lead to a substantial increase in the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
A new meta-study published in the journal Advances in Nutrition reveals that the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages could raise the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, whereas sugars found in solid foods or consumed with them might offer some protection against the condition.
Led by researchers at Brigham Young University, the study looked at 29 research studies conducted around the world, including in Europe, the United States, Asia, Australia, and Latin America.
The researchers found that the consumption of sugar-sweetened drinks, including soft drinks, sports drinks, and energy drinks, was closely linked to the development of type 2 diabetes. Each 12-ounce serving of a sugar-sweetened drink increased the risk of diabetes by approximately 25% relative to the existing level of risk. Fruit juice, often viewed as a healthier alternative, still increased the risk by 5% with each serving.
Intriguingly, the study also demonstrated that an intake of 20 grams of sugars per day had an inverse relationship to the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This suggests that eating sugar, to a certain extent, may actually lower the risk of diabetes.
Lead author Karen Della Corte, PhD, Assistant Professor of Nutrition, Dietetics, and Food Science at Brigham Young University, explained the findings, stating, "Our hypothesis was shaped by emerging research on glycemic response, liver metabolism, and the concept of the food matrix. Our results show that the health effects of sugar depend heavily on how it's consumed."
When sugars are consumed through solid foods, like whole fruits, dairy products, and whole grains, they are typically accompanied by fiber, fats, or other nutrients that slow down the digestion and absorption of sugar, leading to a more gradual increase in blood glucose levels. This slower digestion reduces the likelihood of a significant spike in insulin resistance or glucose intolerance.
On the other hand, when sugars are consumed through beverages, they quickly enter the body without the same digestive assistance, overwhelming the system and potentially leading to sharp blood sugar spikes and insulin responses, which can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The rapid delivery of liquid sugars can also interfere with insulin signaling and contribute to metabolic dysfunction.
Michelle Routhenstein, MS RD CDCES CDN, a Preventive Cardiology Dietitian and Heart Health Expert at EntirelyNourished.com, who was not involved in the study, echoed Della Corte's sentiment, stating, "This study reinforces the idea that carbohydrates, including sugars, are an important part of the diet, and how we consume them really matters."
In conclusion, the study emphasizes the importance of understanding the context in which we consume sugar and notes that while sugars found in solid foods do not significantly increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, sugar consumed through beverages poses a significant risk due to its rapid impact on blood glucose levels.
- The meta-study published in Advances in Nutrition suggests that consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, while sugars found in solid foods might offer some protection.
- The study, led by researchers at Brigham Young University, found that each 12-ounce serving of a sugar-sweetened drink could increase the risk of diabetes by approximately 25%, and fruit juice also increased the risk by 5%.
- Activities like nutrition, endocrine science, medical-conditions, and health-and-wellness must consider the findings of this study, which indicate that the health effects of sugar depend on how it's consumed.
- The study demonstrates that an intake of 20 grams of sugars per day has an inverse relationship with the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, suggesting that consuming sugar, to a certain extent, may lower the risk.
- Fitness-and-exercise professionals and nutrition experts agree that the study reinforces the importance of understanding the context of sugar consumption, as the rapid impact of sugars found in beverages can contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes.
