The type of sweet treat you choose may have a greater impact on your heart health than you realize. A new study from researchers at Lund University in Sweden suggests that not all added sugars are created equal when it comes to their effects on cardiovascular health.
Key Findings: Sugars and Their Sources
Sugary drinks emerged as the worst culprit, significantly increasing the risk of stroke, heart failure, and irregular heartbeat, the study found. However, consuming honey on oatmeal or occasionally indulging in a pastry didn’t show the same harmful effects—in fact, it may even offer some unexpected health benefits.
“The most striking finding from our study is the divergent relationship between different sources of added sugar and cardiovascular disease risk,” said Suzanne Janzi, a doctoral candidate and lead researcher. “This surprising contrast highlights the importance of considering not just the amount of sugar consumed, but its source and context.”
The Research
The study analyzed data from nearly 70,000 Swedish participants who were part of two long-term health studies. Researchers examined dietary questionnaires and focused on three primary sugar sources: sugary beverages, pastries and treats, and sweet toppings like honey.
Over the course of the follow-up, which ended in 2019, nearly 26,000 participants developed heart-related issues. Sugary drinks were linked to the highest risk, likely due to their lack of satiety, which can lead to overconsumption.
“Liquid sugars, found in sweetened beverages, typically provide less satiety than solid forms — they make you feel less full, potentially leading to overconsumption,” Janzi explained.
A Sweet Spot in Moderation
Interestingly, participants who consumed an occasional sugary treat fared better than those who avoided them entirely. The researchers speculated this might reflect underlying dietary behaviors. People with very restrictive diets or preexisting health conditions may limit sugar for reasons unrelated to overall cardiovascular health.
“These findings suggest that extremely low sugar intake may not be necessary or beneficial for cardiovascular health,” Janzi noted, cautioning that the study was observational and could not establish causation.
Cultural Context and Global Relevance
The research emphasized the role of cultural habits, particularly Sweden’s tradition of fika—a coffee and pastry break enjoyed regularly. “These results may not directly translate to other populations with different dietary cultures,” Janzi explained.
The study, published in Frontiers in Public Health, underscores the need for further research to understand how various dietary patterns influence heart health in diverse populations.
The Takeaway
While sugary drinks pose a clear risk, enjoying a sweet treat in moderation—especially in a social or cultural context—may not be harmful and could even have subtle benefits. As science continues to explore the complexities of diet and heart health, one thing is clear: balance and context matter when it comes to satisfying your sweet tooth.