Liquid sugar versus solid sugar
According to the Swedish study, sugary drinks differ significantly from solid sugars because of their lower capacity to satiate. As Suzanne Janzi, lead author of the study, explains: “ Liquid sugar does not cause the same feeling of fullness, which can lead to overconsumption “. This characteristic, combined with their frequent daily consumption, increases the risk of serious illnesses.
In comparison, cakes and other sweets, often consumed occasionally, do not present the same degree of danger. The study notes, however, that the complete absence of sugar in the diet can also signal underlying health problems.
The sweetest drinks and their sugar content
Soft drinks, iced teas and energy drinks are among the sweetest products. Here is an overview of the average sugar levels of these products, compared to common sugary foods:
| Product | Quantity (100 ml/g) | Average sugar content (g) |
|---|---|---|
| Classic sodas | 33 cl | 35 g |
| Iced teas | 50 cl | 20-25 g |
| Energy drinks | 25 cl | 27 g |
| Biscuits secs | 30 g | 12-15 g |
| Industrial cakes | 50 g | 20-25 g |
A simple 33 cl soda contains as much sugar as several biscuits, but its rapid absorption accentuates the metabolic impact.
Cardiovascular risks and other diseases
The study establishes a clear link between excessive consumption of sugary drinks and several serious pathologies. Among the main ones:
- Stroke and heart failure : people who regularly drink sodas have an accumulated risk of stroke, in particular because of the glycemic peaks they cause.
- Diabetes and obesity : overconsumption of liquid sugar contributes to weight gain and the development of type 2 diabetes.
- Atrial fibrillation : prolonged consumption could lead to heart rhythm disturbances.
In Europe, where cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of mortality, these results call for awareness.
Thoughtful and moderate consumption
Faced with these dangers, Experts recommend limiting the consumption of sugary drinks in favor of solid sugars consumed in moderation. In Sweden, “Fika”, a coffee break with pastries, is presented as an example of cultural balance. However, Suzanne Janzi recalls that these conclusions, issues for a Swedish population, required additional research before being generalized.
