November 4, 2010 – Drinking the equivalent of 1 to 2 cans per day of sugary drinks is linked to a higher risk of suffering from type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome, according to an American study1.
The researchers evaluated 11 studies involving a total of 310,819 adults. This meta-analysis is the first to gather data on these two health disorders related to sugary drinks (soft drinks, fruit drinks, iced teas, energy drinks, vitamin waters, etc.), they point out.
According to their results, people who consumed 1 to 2 servings of 12 ounces or 355 ml (can) per day of these drinks were 26% more likely to suffer from type 2 diabetes and 20% of metabolic syndrome, compared to those who drank very little or not.
In the United States, the consumption of calories from sugary drinks increased from 64 to 142 calories daily, from 1970 to 2006. Same story in Quebec, where it increased by 100%, from 1977 to 19972. Note that only one of these drinks can contain 15 g to 40 g of added sugar (3 to 8 teaspoons).
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Metabolic syndrome |
Given the high sugar content and the large format of sugary drinks, the authors note that consuming it regularly significantly increases blood sugar levels, which can lead to various metabolic disorders, including insulin resistance which can lead to type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
They also note that rigorous studies have shown that the consumption of sugary drinks is associated with obesity in adults and children, a significant risk factor for diabetes. Replacing these drinks with healthy choices, such as water, would help prevent the risk of chronic illnesses related to being overweight, the researchers believe.
Nathalie Vigneault – PasseportSanté.net
1. Malik VS, Popkin BM, Després JP, Sugar-sweetened beverages and risk of metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes: a meta-analysis, Diabetes Care. 2010 Nov; 33 (11): 2477-83.
2. Special report on sugary drinks, Public health bulletin, September 2010, volume 32, no 3.
