Sugar-sweetened drinks 'raise risk of diabetes'

Sugar-sweetened drinks 'raise risk of diabetes'

People who drink sugar-sweetened drinks and juices on a daily basis are increasing their risk of diabetes and other health problems, a new study suggests.

According to US researchers, rising consumption of sugar-laden beverages, sports drinks and fruit juices has contributed to more than 100,000 cases of diabetes over the past ten years.

The study, presented at the American Heart Association's annual conference, showed the drinks had also played a major role in the rise of obesity.

Scientists said some 6,000 deaths in the US over the past decade could be attributed to the increase in sugar-sweetened drinks, which raise the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Robert Eckel, professor of medicine at the University of Colorado Denver, said people should be aware of the role drinks can play in their overall diet.

"Always consider overall diet in the context of energy balance and make sure foods and drinks high in added sugars are not taking the place of foods with essential nutrients," he added.

The advice comes after a recent report by Irish organisation safefood found that many parents and children in Ireland fail to account for the contribution of drinks to their daily calorie intake.