We previously talked about the ties between processed foods and cancer. Do sugary drinks like fruit juice and soda have a similar link?
A new study published in The BMJ not only linked cancer risk to consuming sugary drinks, but also found that “just a small glass of a sugary drink per day” could increase a person’s risk of cancer by 18% (22% for breast cancer).
The lead author of the study says the obesity and weight gain associated with sugary drink consumption ultimately led to cancer. But the sugar in the drinks “seemed to be the main driver of the link.”
What can you substitute for juice and soda?
The Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion says to drink water and low-fat milk. The CDC also recommends:
- Adding lemon, lime, cucumber or watermelon slices to water
- Drinking sparkling water—with an optional splash of 100% juice
- Only drinking small sizes (ex. 8-oz. cans and bottles of soda)
Plus, if you’re counting calories, it’s hard to compete with water and sparkling water, both of which carry zero calories.
If you’re looking to make a switch from sugary drinks, head to the CDC website to learn more.
