A recent article published in the journal Nature Medicine revealed shocking side effects of consuming sugar-sweetened beverages. The study found that in 2020 alone, there were over 2 million new cases of type 2 diabetes worldwide directly linked to sugary drinks, as well as more than 1 million cases of cardiovascular disease. Dr. Julie Chen, a lifestyle medicine physician at Kaiser Permanente, warns that starting kids on sugary drinks at a young age can lead to a difficult habit to break.
Dr. Chen specifically mentions sodas, sweet teas, energy drinks, sports beverages, and fruit juices as high in simple sugars that should be avoided. She advises parents to steer their children away from these drinks and instead focus on consuming more water. To make water more appealing, Dr. Chen suggests adding lemon or cucumber, or opting for seltzer water as an alternative.
Many sugary drinks are marketed to children using colorful packaging and cartoons, making them even more appealing. However, these drinks can have serious health consequences. Dr. Chen’s recommendation to switch to water and other healthier alternatives can help reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease associated with excessive sugar consumption. So next time you reach for that syrupy coffee or sugary soda, consider the potential impact on your health and make a healthier choice.
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