This paper reviews the effects of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) on obesity, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The marked increase in the consumption of SSBs across the globe has been well documented in the United States and Mexico, where large-scale dietary intake surveys have been carried out several times over the last decade. The findings of the review are in line with the recent recommendations of the American Heart Association to reduce added-sugar intake to no more than 100 to 150 kcal/day for most Americans. Large epidemiological studies reviewed in this paper have recently established relationships between SSB consumption and long-term weight gain, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular risk. The promotion of weight gain by increased consumption of SSBs is mediated, at least partly, by the high added-sugar content, low satiety, and potential incomplete compensation for total energy which leads to increased energy intake. An important factor which could explain the relation between SSBs and increased type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular risk independently of obesity is the high dietary glycemic load associated with SSBs that generates inflammation, insulin resistance and impaired β-cell function. Moreover, fructose used in some SSBs may also increase blood pressure and promote the accumulation of intra-abdominal (visceral) adiposity and dyslipidemia. Global measures including education should be implemented to limit the consumption of SSBs especially in children and adolescents.
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