A recent meta-study reveals that the association between sugar and type 2 diabetes is more complex than one might imagine, despite the fact that having a sweet tooth is frequently linked to an elevated risk of the disease. Type 2 diabetes is not greatly increased by sugars found in foods, but it is by sugars found in sweetened beverages.
Key Results of the Meta-Study
This study supported earlier findings that the development of type 2 diabetes was closely associated with the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages, including energy drinks, sports drinks, and soft drinks.
According to the meta-study, the chance of developing diabetes rose by 25% for every 12-ounce portion of a sugar-sweetened beverage consumed daily, in comparison to their pre-existing risk level.
Fruit Juice
Many people believe that fruit juice is a healthier option to these types of beverages because it may have less potentially dangerous ingredients. It still has a considerable amount of sugar, though.
According to the meta-study, the risk of diabetes rose by 5% for every serving of fruit juice.
The study’s findings about the relationship—or lack thereof—between the risk of diabetes and the amount of sugar taken in or with foods may surprise some.
Unexpected Results on Food Sugar Intake
The researchers discovered a negative correlation between the incidence of type 2 diabetes and consuming 20 grams of sugar each day. This implies that consuming sugar may actually lower a person’s risk of developing diabetes.
The Main Distinction Between liquid and Solid Sugar
Sugars that are consumed in beverages enter our bodies very differently than when they are consumed with meals.
However, when sugars are consumed, these nutrients usually go with them.
A pathway to type 2 diabetes is easy to envisage since liquid carbohydrates, especially fructose, which is found in sugary drinks, overwhelm our system.
The body absorbs sugars more slowly and easily when they are ingested with or as an ingredient in food.
The meta-study unequivocally demonstrates that avoiding beverages with added sugar is a prudent preventative measure to prevent type 2 diabetes. It also unequivocally backs up the notion that sugar belongs in a balanced diet.
Summary
The risk of type 2 diabetes is greatly increased by sugar-sweetened beverages, but sugar in food doesn’t increase that risk and may even be beneficial when included in a diet high in nutrients. The way and setting in which sugar is eaten has a significant impact.
