Study surprises: Why cake is good for your heart – and sweet drinks are not
From: Catherine Wittenberg
A new study has examined the effects of different types of sugar on the risk of cardiovascular disease. The results are amazing.
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Certain sweets can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. The researchers at Lund University in Sweden examined the health data of nearly 70,000 men and women aged 45 to 83. Sugar consumption was divided into drinks, sweets and additives such as sugar in coffee.
According to the study, sweet drinks increased the risk of cardiovascular disease by about 20 percent. However, moderate consumption of sweets such as cakes and pastries is less problematic.
Pastry consumption can be health-promoting
In a surprising result, the researchers find that moderate consumption of pastries and similar sweets can even be beneficial to health. “Those who snacked on small amounts of sweets four times a week on average had a five to nine percent lower risk of serious heart disease,” report the researchers.
What is particularly striking is that people who consume very little or no sugar had an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. This could indicate heavy dieting and pre-existing medical conditions.
“It is important to consider not only the amount of sugar consumed, but also its source and context,” explained study author Suzanne Janzi. Sweet drinks had little effect on satiety, whereas cake also contained fiber and protein, which could contribute to satiety.
The social institution of the so-called fika in Sweden could also play a role. Enjoying coffee and cake with other people may have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system.
