A new study published in the journal Nature reveals a worrying trend linking sugar-sweetened beverages to global health crises. With around 340,000 deaths each year from Type 2 diabetes and heart disease associated with these drinks, the research focuses on the peaks in consumption seen in Latin America and sub-Saharan Africa.
These regions have seen a significant increase in soft drink consumption, as soda companies shift focus to emerging markets amid declining sales in North America and Europe. The study also highlights that in 2020 alone, sugary drinks were attributed to 2.2 million new diabetes cases and 1.2 million cardiovascular disease cases.
This escalating trend signifies a stark rise from previous studies that estimated 184,000 deaths globally in 2010 due to sugary drinks. Experts emphasize the health risks posed by these beverages, which are often high in empty calories. Regular consumption can lead to obesity, liver damage, and serious conditions like hypertension and diabetes, which can result in dire health complications, including blindness and amputations.
