A recent study suggests that indulging in a piece of chocolate might be better for your heart than completely swearing off sweet treats.
On December 9, Professor Susanne Jansson and her team from Lund University in Sweden published surprising research in the international journal Frontiers in Public Health. Their study on sugar intake and heart health revealed an unexpected twist: nibbling on a small chocolate bar could be more beneficial for your heart than cutting out sugar entirely.
The research tracked the eating habits of 69,705 adults aged 45 to 83 from 1997 to 2009. Participants reported their weekly sugar consumption while researchers monitored their heart health until 2019. During this period, approximately 26,000 participants were diagnosed with cardiovascular issues. The findings showed that individuals who consumed 5% to 7.5% of their daily calories from sugar were 17% less likely to have a stroke and 20% less likely to experience heart failure compared to those who consumed less than 5%. Similar patterns were observed for other heart-related conditions.
However, the study warns against overindulging sugar, which can harm heart health. The researchers suggest that eating occasional sweets might be better for your heart than cutting out sugar altogether. They found that individuals who avoided sugar entirely or consumed very little were likelier to replace it with unhealthy alternatives, such as saturated fats. Furthermore, some participants in the low-sugar group were already managing heart problems, which likely influenced their decision to cut back on sugar.
When it comes to heart health, not all sugars are created equal. Liquid fructose, found in sodas, was associated with a significantly higher risk of heart problems. The study revealed that individuals who consumed soda eight or more times a week faced a 33% higher risk of coronary artery disease compared to those who consumed less. Additionally, the risks of heart failure and stroke increased by 20% and 10%, respectively.
Jansson explained that liquid fructose does not satiate, which can lead to overindulging. He noted that while occasionally enjoying a treat is acceptable, regularly consuming sodas can harm health. In the United States, the Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend limiting added sugar intake to less than 10% of your total daily calories. This study highlights the importance of balance, suggesting that occasional sweets, like a piece of chocolate, can be heart-friendly if consumed in moderation.
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