Soft drink consumption: Do we know what we drink and its implication on health?

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Intake of sugar sweetened beverages has been consistently linked to increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease, among other diseases. Putative underlying mechanisms include incomplete compensation for liquid calories, adverse glycemic effects, and increased hepatic metabolism of fructose leading to de novo lipogenesis, production of uric acid, and accumulation of visceral and ectopic fat. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to elucidate any existing link between energy-containing liquids, as consumed in various forms within the diet, and the effect they may have on body weight or other diseases; and whether soft drink consumption displaces water consumption. METHODS: A self-administered online survey was conducted in 2496 participants from different countries, in six languages (Spanish, English, Chinese, French, German and Portuguese). Questions referred to their soft drink and water consumption habits, physical exercise performed, presence or absence of certain diseases and medication. RESULTS: There is statistically significant difference (p < 0.001) in BMI and consumption of cola per week: those who consumed 0–3 cans a week have a lower BMI than those who consume >7 cans of cola a week. Statistically significant difference (p = 0.02) was found when consuming soft drinks different from cola. There is greater presence of obesity (p < 0.001), gastritis (p < 0.001), constipation (p < 0.001) and mental illness (p = 0.003) among people who drink cola soft drinks. CONCLUSION: Removal of energy-containing beverages from our diet may be an appropriate public health message to support those interested in preventing weight gain as well as other diseases.

Replacement of Refined Sugar by Natural Sweeteners: Focus on Potential Health Benefits

“…A greater presence of obesity, gastritis constipation and mental illness among people who consume cola soft drinks more. (Martín et al, 2018) A cross-sectional study was carried out on 6-12 years of school-going children. Data about the consumption of sugar-containing foods and dental history were obtained.…”

The Perception of Overweight and Obesity among South African Adults: Implications for Intervention Strategies

“…The respondents in the study identified the type of drinks, such as sugar-sweetened beverages, as the main culprit in causing obesity. Sugar-sweetened beverages are linked to obesity due to increased energy intake and frequent consumption, leading to weight gain [18]. In a study conducted among Mexican adults [19], it was observed that increased sugar-sweetened beverages were associated with weight gain.…”

Replacement of refined sugar by natural sweeteners: focus on potential health benefits

“… A greater presence of obesity, gastritis constipation and mental illness among people who consume cola soft drinks more. ( Martín et al., 2018 ) A cross-sectional study was carried out on 6–12 years of school-going children. Data about the consumption of sugar-containing foods and dental history were obtained.…”