ISLAMABAD: A recent study by researchers at Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health has revealed that consuming sugary drinks is associated with an increased risk of heart disease and can also cause death in some cases.
After studying over 12,000 participants with Type 2 diabetes, the researchers analyzed their sugar consumption and found that Type 2 diabetic patients who drank sweet drinks regularly had a high risk of heart disease and could die before their maturity as compared to those who consumed other beverages.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that over 37 million Americans have diabetes disease, and estimated that up to 95 percent of them have Type 2 diabetes.
According to the study, spanning from 1980 to 2018, has examined the connection between the consumption of different beverages and the risk of death or disease among people with Type 2 diabetes.
The study found that consuming sugary drinks, including caffeinated and caffeine-free colas, lemonade, fruit punches, and fruit drinks, such as apple, orange, and grapefruit, can increase the risk of mortality to 8%.
Replace sugary drinks with healthier alternatives
To reduce health risks, researchers recommend that daily sugar intake be limited to 50 grams or less and that sugary drinks be replaced with healthier alternatives. Replacing one serving of a sugary drink with coffee, tea, low-fat cow’s milk, or plain water can lower the risk of all-cause mortality by up to 18%.
Additionally, opting for artificial sweeteners may decrease the risk of death from cardiovascular disease by 15%. However, concerns remain over the long-term effects of sugar substitutes.
The lead author of the study, Qi Sun, suggested that people with diabetes should carefully consider their beverage choices and switch to healthier alternatives to promote overall health.
This study adds to a growing body of research indicating that reducing sugar intake can improve health outcomes, particularly for individuals with Type 2 diabetes.
It is advisable for everyone, not just those with diabetes, to be mindful of their sugar intake and opt for healthier alternatives.
