Rapidly absorbed sugars: Recipe for metabolic dysfunction
Photo: What sweet treats are dangerous (freepik.com)
Sweet treats can lead not only to excess weight and obesity but also to heart diseases. The consequences may result in the development of diabetes or even a heart attack and death, according to Strona Zdrowia.
What's known about sweets and diabetes
Today, more and more people worldwide are suffering from type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
American researchers analyzed medical records regarding the consumption of sugary drinks in 184 countries from 1990 to 2020. The analysis showed that the consumption of sweetened beverages is responsible for 2.2 million new cases of diabetes (9.8% of all new cases of type 2 diabetes for various reasons) and over 1 million diagnoses of heart diseases annually (3.1% of all cases of heart disease).
Scientists emphasize that the liquid form of sugary drinks, which contain high amounts of sugar, quickly raises blood sugar levels.
Regular consumption of sweetened carbonated drinks, such as cola, Fanta, or energy drinks, reduces the body's efficiency in regulating blood sugar levels. This can lead to the development of type 2 diabetes and causes inflammation in the body, which leads to hardening of blood vessels and can result in heart disease.
Why sugary carbonated drinks are so harmful
Due to their liquid form, carbonated drinks are consumed and absorbed quickly, leading to less satiety, higher calorie intake, and weight gain.
Large doses of rapidly absorbed glucose also activate insulin and other regulatory pathways, which can lead to the formation of visceral fat, insulin resistance in the liver and skeletal muscles, and weight gain.
"Large doses of rapidly absorbed fructose directly activate fat synthesis in the liver, leading to ectopic fat deposition and metabolic dysfunction of the liver and muscles," the study analysis states.
This situation causes a rapid increase in blood sugar levels, hormonal system regulation disorders, and metabolic imbalances, resulting in rapid weight gain.
The accumulation of large amounts of adipose tissue, especially in the form of visceral fat, leads not only to obesity and type 2 diabetes but also to chronic inflammation, which poses a threat to health and even life.
Excessive obesity and metabolic dysfunction activate inflammatory cytokines and increase the risk of hypertension, dyslipidemia, and diabetes.
All these risk factors accelerate atherosclerosis and plaque instability, contributing to ischemic cardiovascular events, the researchers add in their analysis.
Previously, we noted that scientists named the most dangerous type of bread.
Also, read about the 5 worst breakfasts we're used to.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
