Sweet Drinks with Bitter Consequences

Sugar sweetened beverages are associated with a higher risk of heart disease and diabetes in women. Researchers queried nearly 4200 healthy men and women about their dietary habits. These people, who ranged in age from 45 to 84 were followed up for five years. During that time women who regularly drank at least two sugary beverages daily were four times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes or high triglycerides, a blood fat associated with a greater risk of heart disease. They also had large waist circumference, suggesting more belly fat. The authors warn that drinking sweetened beverages may harm health even for women with stable weight.

[American Heart Association meeting, November 13, 2011]