Rapid Response

Soft Drink Consumption Is Associated with an Increased Risk of Metabolic Syndrome and Its Components in Adults

Authors: Michael J. Bloch, MD

Abstract

In a recent analysis of Framingham data, Dhingra et al1 demonstrate that baseline consumption of at least one soft drink a day is associated with an approximately 45% increase in the incidence and prevalence of the metabolic syndrome as defined by National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) guidelines, compared with subjects who consumed less than one soft drink per day. This relationship was maintained even after correcting for reported dietary and demographic variables (age, sex, physical activity, smoking, intake of saturated and trans fats, fiber, magnesium, total calories, and glycemic index). In addition, consumption of at least one soft drink daily was associated with an 18 to 32% increase in the incidence of individual metabolic syndrome risk factors (increased waist circumference, impaired fasting glucose, elevated blood pressure, high triglycerides, and low HDL cholesterol). This finding is consistent with the results of previous observational studies that have also found an association between increased soft drink consumption and risk of obesity, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes mellitus in children, adolescents, and adults.2–5

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References

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