How is high intake of sugar-sweetened beverages related to health?

High intake of sugar-sweetened beverages is associated with obesity and diabetes risk due to several physiological mechanisms. These beverages contain large amounts of added sugars, particularly fructose and sucrose, which can lead to an excess caloric intake when consumed in significant quantities. Consistently high sugar consumption can promote weight gain, as liquid calories do not trigger the same feelings of fullness as solid foods, leading individuals to consume more overall calories.

Moreover, excessive sugar intake can lead to insulin resistance, which is a key factor in the development of type 2 diabetes. Insulin resistance occurs when cells become less responsive to insulin, causing higher levels of glucose in the bloodstream and prompting the body to release more insulin, creating a cycle that can eventually result in metabolic disorders.

The presence of sugar-sweetened beverages in the diet has also been linked to chronic inflammation, which can further exacerbate the risk of metabolic diseases. Therefore, research consistently shows that high consumption of these beverages adversely affects metabolic health by increasing the likelihood of obesity and diabetes.