Sweeteners and Risk of Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes: The Role of Sugar-Sweetened Beverages.

Abstract in brief

• The rise in added sugar intake, especially from sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs), has closely mirrored the increase in global obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D) over recent decades, making SSBs the largest source of added sugars in the US diet.
• Large observational studies have found that consuming SSBs is associated with long-term weight gain and a higher risk of developing T2D and other metabolic issues, with biological mechanisms suggesting these drinks increase T2D risk not only through weight gain but also via their rapid absorption of sugars and effects of fructose.
• SSBs contribute to weight gain because liquid calories are often less fully compensated for, and their high sugar content can raise blood sugar levels and impact metabolism, increasing risks for T2D independently of weight gain.]