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A Surprising Link Between Sugar Sources and Cardiovascular Risk
When choosing between a soda or a scoop of ice cream, your decision could significantly impact your heart health, according to a new study published in Frontiers in Public Health. The research highlights a surprising relationship between different sources of added sugar and the risk of serious cardiovascular issues, such as stroke, heart failure, and aneurysms.
The Study: Sweetened Beverages vs. Sweet Treats
The study, conducted by researchers at Sweden’s Lund University, examined the dietary patterns of nearly 70,000 people aged 45 to 83 over two decades. Participants self-reported their consumption of added sugars in three categories: sweetened beverages, sweetened toppings (like table sugar, jam, or honey), and sweetened treats (including ice cream, pastries, and chocolate).
The findings were striking. People who consumed more than eight sweetened beverages weekly faced a:
- 19% higher risk of stroke
- 18% higher risk of heart failure
- 31% higher risk of aneurysm
By contrast, even frequent consumption of sugary treats such as ice cream or chocolate did not show such dramatic increases in cardiovascular risk.
Insights from the Researchers
“The most striking finding from our study is the divergent relationship between different sources of added sugar and cardiovascular disease risk,” said Suzanne Janzi, a PhD candidate at Lund University. “This surprising contrast highlights the importance of considering not just the amount of sugar consumed, but its source and context.”
Why the Source of Sugar Matters
Dietary recommendations often emphasize reducing sugar to lower cardiovascular risks, but this study suggests that not all sugars are equally harmful. The researchers hypothesize that sugary drinks may have a more direct impact on blood sugar spikes and overall metabolic health than treats like ice cream, which are often consumed alongside other foods that could mitigate these effects.
Lifestyle and Demographic Factors
The study also revealed demographic patterns: men, older adults, and those with higher exercise levels or lower education tended to consume more sugar overall. Those who drank the most sugary beverages also reported adding sweetened toppings rather than indulging in desserts.
Limitations and Broader Implications
While the findings are compelling, the researchers caution that the study had limitations. Participants self-reported their diets, which can introduce inaccuracies, and the study population was limited to Sweden, meaning the results may not apply universally.
Despite these caveats, the research offers valuable insights into heart health. It reinforces the importance of not only reducing sugar intake but also carefully considering its sources.
Bottom Line: If you’re craving something sweet, swapping a soda for a scoop of ice cream could be a heart-smart choice—just enjoy it in moderation.
SOURCES:
Frontiers in Public Health: “Added sugar intake and its associations with incidence of seven different cardiovascular diseases in 69,705 Swedish men and women,” “Sugary drinks significantly raise cardiovascular disease risk, but occasional sweet treats don’t, scientists find.”
