23 hours Ago By Ashima Sharda Mahindra
Who doesn’t love sugary beverages, sodas, and ice creams—but they can wreak havoc with your heal especially the heart? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, almost 50 per cent of adults drink at least one sugar-sweetened beverage every day. Sugar also causes an increased risk of developing obesity, dental cavities, and more. However, according to a new study, sipping on sugary beverages could be worse for health than consuming other forms of added sugar.
The research, published in Frontiers in Public Health, suggests that consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages like colas, fruit drinks, and sweet tea made with real sugar can directly affect your cardiovascular health. Researchers in the study evaluated diet and lifestyle data from nearly 70,000 adults from Sweden between the ages of 45 and 83 years - over more than two decades. The three food and drink categories included sugar-sweetened drinks, pastries, ice cream, chocolate, honey, jams, and marmalades.
Related News | What Happens To Your Body When You Drink Aloe Vera Juice Daily in Summers?Viral Tips That Can Help You Reduce Blood PressureThe analysis of the study said sweet drinks were responsible for a higher risk of ischemic stroke, heart failure, and aortic stenosis. Specifically, researchers found that drinking more than eight servings of sugar-sweetened beverages weekly was associated with a: 19 per cent higher risk of ischemic stroke 18 per cent higher risk of heart failure 11 per cent higher risk of atrial fibrillation 31 per cent higher risk of abdominal aortic aneurysm Experts say a can of regular cola is packed with around 40 grams of added sugar - more than 80 per cent of the daily maximum recommended by the American Heart Association. However, this study highlights that sugar-sweetened beverages are significant culprits associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Why are beverages the culprits? Related News | Is Your Favourite Snack Slowly Killing You? Study Links Ultra-Processed Foods To Early Death!According to experts, liquid calories provide lower satiety compared to solid foods—which results in most people not compensating by reducing their caloric intake, which contributes to weight gain and obesity. However, when it comes to eating desserts like ice cream cones, researchers say they would further investigate and interpret the findings. Mostly they speculate that because desserts are not consumed in isolation, those who eat them may be eating other nutrient-dense foods at the same time, potentially counteracting the potential negative effects.
How to limit your consumption of sugary foods and drinks? According to experts, you can limit your consumption of sugar-loaded beverages and promote heart health with the following: Always read labels Make sure to always read the back labels to know the list of ingredients and check nutrition facts to know what you are consuming. Opt for the ones that have no, or no added sugars. Drink water Water should always be your go-to beverage, as it is refreshing, hydrating, and does not have any sugar or calories.
Drink fresh juice Rather than buying preservative-loaded store-bought juices, always have freshly squeezed juices that are packed with essential nutrients and antioxidants. However, do not go overboard and have them in moderation. Try homemade refreshments There are many low-calorie and healthy drinks you can make at home to quench your thirst.
Infuse water with fruits, herbs, or cucumber slices to add a burst of flavour without adding any sugar..
