A recent study suggests that not all sources of added sugar are equal when it comes to health risks. Sugary drinks, such as sodas and fruit juices, are linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease compared to other sugary foods like baked goods, according to the research. The study, conducted by Suzanne Janzi, a doctoral student at Lund University, surveyed nearly 70,000 Swedish adults over a period of more than a decade.
The findings, published in Frontiers in Public Health, show that while both sugary drinks and sweets contribute to heart disease, beverages are the more harmful option. Interestingly, those who consumed the least sugar didn’t necessarily have the lowest heart disease risk, raising questions about other dietary factors.
Study Insights:
The study categorized sugar intake into three groups: sugary beverages, sweets like pastries, and sugar added to foods like coffee and tea. The researchers found that sugary drinks were absorbed quickly in the digestive system, leading to faster spikes in blood sugar, which can contribute to cardiovascular issues over time. In contrast, solid foods like pastries often contain other nutrients, such as fiber and fats, which slow digestion and prevent rapid blood sugar increases.
However, Janzi notes that the study’s observational nature means the exact cause of the association cannot be confirmed, and other unexamined factors might play a role.
What This Means for You:
While you don’t need to cut out sugar entirely, focusing on reducing sugary drink consumption can significantly lower your heart disease risk. The American Heart Association recommends limiting added sugar to 6 teaspoons per day for women and 9 for men. A gradual reduction in sugary drink intake, such as replacing soda with sparkling water, can be a sustainable approach to improving your health.
Ultimately, the study emphasizes that what you drink is just as important as what you eat when it comes to heart health.
