With rising obesity and diabetes rates both globally and in Singapore, we need to keep our body weight in check to prevent risks of health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes and heart disease.
And it’s important to take note of sugar content in fresh fruit juice, which is comparable to that of sugar-sweetened beverages such as soft drinks, said Associate Professor Rob van Dam from the NUS Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health. Furthermore, the hidden risks in beverages are often overlooked as beverages can be quickly consumed and can lead to less satiety than the same amount of calories from solid foods.
One glass of sugar-sweetened beverage is linked to an 18% higher risk of Type 2 diabetes, according to a recent study published in the British Medical Journal. As for fresh fruit juice, a single glass of orange juice contains five teaspoons of sugar, translating to a 7% higher risk of Type 2 diabetes.
Media Coverage:
- The Straits Times, 8 March 2016, Tuesday