People who consume more sweets and soda have a higher risk of periodontal disease, which is linked to chronic inflammation, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes.
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Researchers analyzed data on roughly 2,400 young adults who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Those who consumed sugary foods like cakes, cookies, ice cream, chocolate candy, and soft drinks most often (at least five times a week) had a 73 percent higher risk of having periodontal disease in at least two teeth than those who never ate those foods.
There was no link with white bread, white rice, or other refined carbs.
What to do: This study suggests, but doesn’t prove, that sugars cause periodontal disease. But there are plenty of other reasons to eat (and drink) less sugar.
Source: Am. J. Clin. Nutr. 100: 1182, 2014.
Other relevant links:
- The connection between soda consumption and the rise of diabetes. See: Sugar in Food: Are Sugary Beverages Contributing to the Diabetes Epidemic?
- Sugary beverages and weight gain. See: Why Should You Avoid Sugar in Foods and Beverages?
- Determine your sugar limit. See: Sugar in Food: How Much Sugar Should You Eat?