SOFT DRINKS AND YOUR HEALTH

Too Sweet for Our Own Good

We encourage hydration and drinking plenty of fluids. Our teenage son loves drinking soft drinks, but he has gained a lot of weight. How do we balance the counsel we receive on drinking adequate amounts of liquids, especially as we see our son now struggling with his weight?

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hen we encourage the intake of fluids, we’re referring primarily to drinking water. As you point out, many people, both young and old, are drinking increasing amounts of soft drinks (also known as sodas or sugar-sweetened beverage [SSBs]).  These drinks are laden with refined sugars and are fueling epidemics of obesity and diabetes throughout the world. Significant consequences result, especially in low and middle-income countries.

 As part of a global burden of Disease (GBD) study, recent scientific publication analyzed 114 national dietary surveys. These data were representative of more than 60% of the world’s population. Regarding SSBs, there was marked variations in average consumption, ranging from less than one drink per day in elderly Chinese woman to more than five drinks per day in young Cuban males.

The investigators first determined the relationship of sugary-drink intake to body mass index, or BMI. The BMI is the relationship of height to weight; a BMI above 25 is regarded as overweight, and a BMI above 30 is regarded as obese. We encourage you to determine your own BMI; knowing your numbers is very motivating when it comes to making lifestyle choices and changes.

The GBD study revealed that worldwide more than 180000 deaths annually are related to consuming large amounts of sugary beverages. The majority of deaths occurred in low and middle income countries. Mexico had the largest number of deaths related to drinking sugary drinks. It had 318 deaths per million adults Japan had the lowest with 10 deaths per million adults.

What is the reason for the relationship between sugary beverages and death rates?  As the consumption of sugary drinks increases, the BMI goes up(accelerating the obesity epidemic). The elevated BMI increases the occurrence of heart disease, diabetes, and cancers related to obesity, namely; breast, uterine, esophageal, gallbladder, colorectal, kidney and pancreatic cancers. The intake of sugary drinks also adversely affects blood pressure. The international study of macro/micro nutrients and blood pressure (INTERMAP) published these findings in journal hypertension Feb. 28/2011; consumption of even one SSB increased blood pressure. Consumption of 2-3 cans of soda resulted in a more significant increase in blood pressure. This is especially problematic in people who have hypertension as blood pressure control becomes more difficult. Non sweetened beverages, however, had the opposite effect.

What about artificial sweeteners? While in a restaurant in Europe we asked what sugar-free beverages were available? Without a moment’s hesitation- and with an obvious twinkle in his eyes- the server responded, “We have pure water sir!” that line has never been forgotten. Pure, clean is the best beverage by far, and we all would do well to drink it in healthful and plentiful amount.

The data on artificial sweeteners is mixed, with some evidence showing benefits in preventing weight gain; however, there is an additional component: often people who use artificial sweeteners think they have more room for additional calories in liquid or solid forms and pack on the weight and develop diabetes anyway!

Reader, take it on yourself to ensure that you encourage your local communities get safe, clean and pure water for better health results.

Allan R. Handysides, and Peter N. Landless Adventist World-June2013, Pp11