Physical activity is inadequate to counter cardiovascular risk associated with sugar-sweetened beverage consumption

A recent study challenges the belief that physical activity outweighs the risks of cardiovascular disease from sugar-sweetened beverages.

These drinks, a major source of added sugars in North American diets, heighten cardiovascular disease risk, the world's top cause of death. Examining two cohorts totaling about 100,000 adults over 30 years, researchers found that consuming these beverages more than twice weekly increased cardiovascular disease risk, regardless of physical activity levels.

While the recommended 150 minutes of weekly physical activity reduces some risk, it doesn't fully counteract the beverages' adverse effects. Even occasional consumption significantly raises cardiovascular disease risk, with daily intake posing a greater threat.

Addressing the prevalence of sugar-sweetened beverages is crucial, including soft drinks, lemonade, and fruit cocktails. Artificially sweetened beverages showed no increased risk.

Although switching to diet drinks reduces sugar intake, water remains the best choice. These findings support public health efforts to limit sugar-sweetened beverage consumption and promote adequate physical activity.