A recent study published in Nature Medicine has found a significant link between sugary drinks and increased mortality risk. The research, which analyzed data from over 184 countries, estimated that sugary drinks cause more than 330,000 annual deaths from diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
The study’s findings are particularly concerning for Latin America and the Caribbean, where sugary drinks have been linked to a high number of cardiovascular disease cases. Sub-Saharan Africa also saw a significant increase in Type 2 diabetes cases related to sugary drinks.
Experts recommend replacing sugary drinks with unsweetened beverages like water or seltzer, as these contain “empty calories” without any nutritional benefits. Liquid sugars are absorbed more rapidly than solid sugars, leading to a quicker spike in blood sugar levels and increased appetite.
Researchers also warn that alternative sweeteners may not be a suitable solution, citing growing evidence of health harms from both natural and artificial low-calorie sweeteners. Instead, they advise switching to unsweetened drinks altogether, such as seltzer or water, to manage blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
According to Dr. Dariush Mozaffarian, the study’s senior author, “This is a public health crisis that requires urgent action.” Experts agree that hydration is crucial for maintaining good health, with plain water being the best hydrating beverage option.
Source: https://www.ksl.com/article/51223118/drinking-sugary-drinks-may-increase-your-risk-of-death-here-are-alternative-options