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Soft Drinks May Lead to Diabetes

A few years ago, when someone was thirsty, he/she asked for water. Nowadays, it is common to see people walking down the street with a bottle or can of soft drinks instead of water, except for those who practice a sport.

This increase in the consumption of sugared beverages has had among its consequences an increase in the cases of diabetes and heart disease. An investigation by the University of California at San Francisco found that in the past decade, there were 130,000 new cases of diabetes and 14,000 new cases of heart disease.

Among the possible explanations, researchers attribute the increase of heart problems to the increase in diabetes cases; although obesity also has an important influence.
“Whatever the mechanism, large studies suggest that drinking large amounts of sugary soft drinks has an effect,” said Dr. Kirsten Bibbins-Domingo, associate professor of medicine at the University of California. “No one disputes that taking these drinks in moderation is fine, but in the past decade their consumption has increased significantly, while the consumption of other types of beverages has decreased.”

Taxes Could Help
Since the investigation hadn’t been published in a scientific magazine by the time of this statement, Vice President for Science Policy of the American Beverage Association, Dr. Kirsten Bibbins-Domingo, still requires further scientific evidence to suggest solutions to the problem. However, it could probably improve if a policy was launched to reduce the consumption of sugared soft drinks; taxes are an example.

“The reason that there is a debate about taxes is because the scientific evidence in populations has constantly shown that more than one soft drink a day increases the risk,” explained the expert.
For its part, the American Heart Association recommends limiting consumption of sugary drinks, while alternative solutions arise.
A can of Coca-Coca contains 140 calories and 39 grams of sugar, while a can of Diet Coke contains no calories or sugar. For Pepsi, one can has 100 calories and 28 grams of sugar; Diet Pepsi and Pepsi Max have 0 calories and 0 grams of sugar.

According to nutrition experts, foods should not exceed 40 grams of sugar, equivalent to 10 teaspoons. However, a can of Coca-Cola has almost that amount (39 grams), which means it contains the recommended amount of added sugar for the day.
To find out if you’re currently consuming this amount, you can make your own estimations using the Nutrition Facts labels.

Maybe it’s time to replace regular sodas for their diet versions or water. In addition to eating fewer calories, you’ll be making a wise decision for your health.

Source: Healthday, translated by Dr. Tango, www.pepsiproductfacts.comand www.thecoca-colacompany.com

Soft Drinks May Lead to Diabetes

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