HIGH SUGAR, CALORIES IN PACKAGED DRINKS: STUDY

Why fruit juice isn’t better than cola

How many times have you settled for a packaged fruit drink instead of a fizzy cola for health reasons? Turns out that the fruit drink contains the same amounts of sugar and calories as the cola. 

Researchers from the University of Glasgow’s Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences observed that high intake of fruit juices can lead to an increased risk of diabetes. The team pointed out that most packaged fruit juices had an energy density and sugar content similar to other sugary drinks and called for a more comprehensive labelling of fruit juice cartons. Researchers compared 250ml of a packaged fruit drink and a fizzy cola and found that while one serving of apple juice typically contained 110 kcal and 26g of sugar, a serving of cola contains 105 kcal and 26.5g of sugar. 

While similar studies have not been carried out in Chennai, diabetologists and nutritionists in the city agree that the observations are true in the case of packaged fruit drinks here. They could spell danger for diabetics and pre-diabetics. A study sponsored by the Indian Council of Medical Research found 62 million people across the country were diabetic, and 77 million were pre-diabetic. 

Dr Vijay Viswanathan, senior diabetologist at MV Diabetes Research Centre, said that many packaged juices increase the risk of diabetes if consumed in excess. “Each carton contains concentrated sugar and simple carbohydrates which when consumed, especially after a meal, makes the blood sugar peak. We advise diabetics never to drink fruit juices and go for the whole fruit instead,” he said. 

The 26g sugar in each serving of fruit juice means the person is taking five tablespoons of sugar, points out nutritionist Meenakshi Bajaj, Tamil Nadu Government Multi-Super Specialty Hospital. “Those who need instant energy can drink a lot of fruit juice, but diabetics should avoid it. Summer is here and people tend to gulp packaged fruit juice when they are thirsty,” she said. She added that consuming sugar-rich juice could lead to acute glucose toxicity which may result in damaging the liver, eyes and kidneys in the long run. 

Senior diabetologist Dr Anand Moses warned that packaged fruit juices also contained preservatives apart from added sugar. “It is always better to eat whole fruits and vegetables to absorb the goodness. Moreover, people should read the label of the juice packs so they can make an informed choice,” he said.