A new study confirms the link between overconsumption of sodas and diabetes. Published in the British Medical Journal on November 21, the results reveal that sugary drinks, but also all foods to which “free sugars” are added present a higher risk of type 2 diabetes than foods naturally containing fructose, a sugar of natural origin.
“The role of sugars in the development of diabetes and heart disease is a subject of wide debate, write the researchers in a press release, and growing evidence suggests that fructose may be particularly harmful to health. » Fructose is naturally present in fruits, vegetables and honey. It is also added in the form of “free sugars” to foods, such as in sodas, industrial cereals for breakfast, bakery products, sweets…
Beneficial or harmful effects on blood sugar
To determine the impact of these different sugary foods on blood sugar, researchers from St. Michael’s Hospital and the University of Toronto (Canada) reviewed 155 previous studies on the subject. These evaluations focused on people with and without diabetes, for a maximum of 12 weeks.
And research suggests that fruits and vegetables, when they don’t provide excess calories, may have beneficial effects on blood sugar and insulin control, especially in people with diabetes. On the contrary, foods that add excess “nutrient-poor” energy to the diet, particularly sugary drinks, show adverse effects.
“These findings could help guide recommendations on important dietary sources of fructose in the prevention and management of diabetes., says lead author John Sievenpiper in the release. But the level of evidence is low and more high-quality studies are needed. » The researchers conclude in their study: “Public health professionals should be aware that the adverse effects of fructose sugars on blood glucose appear to be energy and food source mediated”.
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