0
0
According to a new study, 2.2 million new cases of type 2 diabetes and 1.2 million new cases of cardiovascular disease worldwide could be caused by the consumption of sodas, energy drinks, and other sugar-sweetened beverages in 2020. That’s one in ten new cases of type 2 diabetes and one in thirty new cases of cardiovascular disease.
A glass of cola (250 ml) contains just under 27 grams of sugar, equivalent to almost nine sugar cubes. Energy drinks, fruit drinks, and other soft drinks can also be sugar bombs—but according to the study, more and more people are turning to such drinks, especially in Latin America and Africa.
It is well known that sugar-sweetened drinks are not good for your health. The German Nutrition Society, for example, writes that they are not suitable as thirst quenchers: “They contain a lot of sugar (around 80-100 g per liter) and therefore provide a lot of calories.”
The research group led by Laura Lara-Castor from Tufts University in the US calculated the health consequences of consuming sugary drinks for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease in a study published in the journal Nature Medicine.
Lots of advertising in poorer countries
The team analyzed data from the Global Dietary Database. This database contains estimates on the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages based on nutritional surveys, as well as data on obesity and diabetes rates. The scientists used figures from 1990 to 2020 and combined the data sets for 184 countries to calculate the probability of a link between the two factors.
The study identified the largest proportion of diseases in sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean. In terms of individual countries, Colombia, Mexico, and South Africa were particularly affected. The study says that the more developed countries become and incomes rise, the more accessible and sought-after sugary drinks are.
Calls for a “soda tax”
As the authors write, their estimates are based on the best available data and well-founded assumptions but cannot prove cause and effect. In addition, the data situation for some countries is incomplete.
The research team also emphasizes that sugary drinks are digested quickly and drive up blood sugar levels without having any nutritional value. Regular consumption leads to weight gain, insulin resistance, and various metabolic problems, which are linked to type 2 diabetes and heart disease, two of the most common causes of death worldwide.
Measures called for
Among other things, the scientists are calling for health campaigns, stricter rules for advertising such drinks, and tax measures. A “soda tax” has already existed in many countries, including the UK, since 2018. This starts at the threshold of five grams of sugar per 100 milliliters. Manufacturers then have to pay 18 pence (21 cents) per liter, and 24 pence (28 cents) per liter for 8 grams of sugar or more per 100 milliliters. Since then, not only has consumption decreased, but manufacturers have also reduced the sugar content.
This post has already been read 1374 times!
