Sugary Drinks Raise Diabetes Risk More Than Sweet Foods, New Study Finds

 Sugary Drinks Pose a Greater Diabetes Risk Than Sweet Foods, Study Finds

A groundbreaking new study has found that sugary drinks—such as soda and fruit juice—raise the risk of developing type 2 diabetes significantly more than sweet foods, even when both contain the same amount of sugar.

Published on June 9, 2025, the study analyzed data from hundreds of thousands of participants and confirmed that liquid sugar is metabolized differently than solid sugar, triggering harmful effects on the liver and insulin regulation.

 “When sugar is consumed in liquid form, it enters the bloodstream rapidly and overloads the liver, leading to insulin resistance over time,” researchers noted.

In contrast, sugar consumed in solid foods—especially those containing fiber, protein, or fat—is absorbed more slowly, causing a smaller spike in blood glucose levels.

Key Takeaways:

Sugary beverages increase the risk of type 2 diabetes more than sweet foods.

Liquid sugars are absorbed quickly, stressing the liver and increasing insulin resistance.

Foods with fiber, fat, or protein slow sugar absorption, reducing diabetes risk.

💡 What You Can Do to Protect Yourself:

Replace soda and juice with water, herbal tea, or unsweetened beverages.

Eat whole fruits instead of drinking fruit juices.

Check food and drink labels for added sugars, even in “healthy” options.

📚 Source:

Upham, B. (2025, June 9). Sugary drinks increase diabetes risk more than sugary foods. Reviewed by Emily K. Wotruba. [Health News Source]