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Sugary drinks have no nutritional value and increase the chance for obesity. A recent study found that people eat more calories on days that they consume sugary drinks. In this video, Robin Miller, MD, discusses the dangers of sugary drinks.
Drinking sugary sodas increases risk of diabetes by 26%, says research in the journal Diabetes Care. The same study found a 20% higher risk of developing metabolic syndrome, and even drinking just one 12-ounce sugary drink raised type 2 diabetes risk by about 5%.
Liquid sugars, which are found in soft drinks, sports drinks, sweetened iced teas, and sweetened waters, have no benefits for health and are clearly linked to higher risk of obesity, diabetes, and perhaps heart disease. Like refined grains and sugars in foods, liquid sugars cause harmful spikes in your blood sugar and insulin, and liquid sugars also cause you to be hungrier and eat more. Natural (beet or cane) sugars have the same effects as high fructose corn syrup (all contain about 50% fructose), and there is no reason to include these in your diet. Skip the sugary drinks and have some unsweetened tea or sparkling water instead.
Continue Learning about Non-Alcoholic Beverages & Health
Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.