A new study published in Nature Medicine has found sugar-sweetened beverages responsible for more than 340,000 deaths globally in 2020 from type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Researchers analyzed global data from observational and randomized studies, finding that 2.2 million new diabetes cases and 1.2 million new heart disease cases were attributable to sugary drinks that year.

Latin America and the Caribbean experienced the highest burden of heart disease cases related to beverages, while sub-Saharan Africa saw the most type 2 diabetes cases. The study also identified younger, educated urban males as the demographic most affected by sugar-sweetened drink consumption. Experts emphasize that these beverages drive metabolic dysfunction through rapid sugar absorption, causing glucose spikes and insulin surges.

While the study shows only an observational relationship, the findings align with recommendations from major health organizations to limit added sugars. Experts advise consuming less than one serving per week of sugary drinks, particularly when balanced with a Mediterranean-style diet. Simple swaps like sparkling water with fresh fruit can help reduce consumption over time.