Sugary drinks have been a common part of many people's diets, but new research shows how bad they can be for our health. A study from Tufts University estimates that every year, drinking sugary beverages leads to 2.2 million new cases of type 2 diabetes and 1.2 million new cases of heart disease.

A study published in Nature Medicine, which analyzed data from 184 countries over 30 years (1990–2020), revealed significant differences in the impact of sugary drinks across various populations. According to the study, men, younger adults, individuals with higher education, and those living in urban areas are more likely to be affected. 

The growing health problems caused by sugary drinks are especially worrying in developing areas like Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean.

How sugary beverages lead to diabetes and heart disease

Dr Manisha Arora, Director of Internal Medicine at CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, explains that sugary drinks are harmful because they pack large amounts of sugar without any nutritional benefits. Unlike whole foods, which provide fibre and essential nutrients, sugary drinks are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, causing a sharp rise in blood sugar levels.

This rapid absorption increases the risk of insulin resistance, a key factor in developing type 2 diabetes. Also, these drinks contribute to weight gain, which is a major risk factor for both diabetes and heart disease.

Sugary drinks don’t just increase the risk of diabetes, they’re also bad for your heart and overall health. They can lead to high blood pressure because too much sugar causes the body to retain sodium.They also raisebadcholesterol (LDL) and lowergoodcholesterol (HDL), increasing heart disease risk. 

These drinks can cause inflammation, which is linked to many health problems, and they contribute to obesity, making heart issues more likely. On top of that, they harm your teeth by promoting cavities, weaken your bones by reducing calcium absorption, and even raise concerns with artificial sweeteners in diet sodas, which may lead to metabolic issues or other health risks.

Research shows that consuming just one extra sugary drink daily increases the risk of type 2 diabetes by 18%. With global consumption of sugary beverages on the rise, experts stress the urgency of taking action. Kanika Malhotra, a Consultant Dietician & Diabetes Educator, advises people with diabetes, heart disease, obesity, or osteoporosis to completely avoid these drinks. She also recommends that pregnant women and children limit their intake to prevent long-term health problems.