Drinking soda, fruit juices can raise diabetes risk: Study

By Admin

29 May, 2025

Do you often reach for a chilled soda, a glass of fruit juice, or a sports drink to quench your thirst? While these sugary beverages may seem refreshing, a groundbreaking study reveals that they could be significantly increasing your risk of developing type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Key Findings of the Study

Researchers from Brigham Young University (BYU), US, analyzed data from over half a million individuals across multiple continents. Their findings, published in the journal Advances in Nutrition, show a clear and alarming dose-response relationship between sugar-sweetened beverages and T2D:

• Each additional 350 ml of sugar-sweetened beverages (including soda, energy drinks, and sports drinks) consumed daily raises the risk of developing T2D by 25%.
  
  

• Even one daily serving poses a risk, with no minimum threshold at which these drinks can be considered safe.
  
  

• Each 250 ml serving of fruit juice (such as 100% juice, nectars, and juice drinks) consumed daily increases T2D risk by 5%.
  
  

Why Liquid Sugar Is More Dangerous

According to lead author Karen Della Corte, a nutritional science professor at BYU, “This is the first study to draw clear dose-response relationships between different sugar sources and type 2 diabetes risk. It highlights why drinking your sugar — whether from soda or juice — is more problematic for health than eating it.”

The reason lies in how these sugars are processed in the body. Sugar-sweetened beverages and fruit juices provide isolated sugars without beneficial nutrients like fiber, fats, or proteins. This leads to a greater glycemic impact, overwhelming the liver and disrupting its metabolism. Over time, this can lead to increased liver fat, insulin resistance, and ultimately, type 2 diabetes.

Not All Sugars Are Equal

Interestingly, the study emphasizes that not all dietary sugars are harmful. Sugars that are naturally embedded in nutrient-dense foods—like whole fruits, dairy, or whole grains—do not trigger the same metabolic overload. These foods slow down the body’s glucose response thanks to the presence of fiber and other beneficial nutrients, making them a safe and healthy part of the diet.

Public Health Implications

Della Corte concluded, “This study underscores the need for even more stringent recommendations for liquid sugars such as those in sugar-sweetened beverages and fruit juice, as they appear to harmfully associate with metabolic health.”

As more people become aware of the dangers of sugar-laden drinks, it's time to rethink our choices. Opt for whole fruits over juices, choose water or unsweetened beverages, and be mindful of how much liquid sugar you're consuming daily.

Stay informed, stay healthy — and drink smart.