Sugar and Sodas Can Cause Diabetes
In a study of 43,960 African-American women, the incidence of type 2 diabetes was found to be higher with higher intake of both sugar-sweetened soft drinks and fruit drinks. Drinking at least 2 soft drinks per day was associated with a 24% increased risk of type 2 diabetes, and consumption of at least 2 fruit drinks per day was associated with a 31% increase. Sadly, sugar loaded "fruit drinks" are often marketed as a healthier alternative to soft drinks. With regards to fruit drinks, the authors state, "The public should be made aware that these drinks are not a healthy alternative to soft drinks with regard to risk of type 2 diabetes."
Epidemiologic studies show that diabetes is almost unheard of in black populations in Africa — until a western diet high in sugar and low in fiber is introduced. Then diabetes rates skyrocket. Diabetes is appropriately called a disease caused by our modern diet!
References
"Sugar-Sweetened Beverages and Incidence of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in African American Women," Palmer JR, Boggs DA, et al, Arch Intern Med, 2008; 168(14): 1487-1492.
Jacob Teitelbaum, M.D. is one of the world's leading integrative medical authorities on fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue. He is the lead author of eight research studies on their effective treatments, and has published numerous health & wellness books, including the bestseller on fibromyalgia From Fatigued to Fantastic! and The Fatigue and Fibromyalgia Solution. His newest book (June 10, 2024) is You Can Heal From Long COVID. Dr. Teitelbaum is one of the most frequently quoted fibromyalgia experts in the world and appears often as a guest on news and talk shows nationwide including Good Morning America, The Dr. Oz Show, Oprah & Friends, CNN, and Fox News Health.
