New Findings on the Benefits of 'Some' Sweets for Heart Health

A recent study has shown that occasionally consuming small amounts of sugar can be beneficial for heart health, provided that the source is not sugary drinks. In this research conducted by scientists at Lund University in Sweden, the effects of different types of sugar on the cardiovascular system were examined, concluding that individuals who obtain their sugar from sources like sweets and honey have better heart health outcomes compared to those who consume sugar-sweetened beverages. Dr. Susanne Janzi, the lead researcher and author of the study, states that this surprising contrast highlights the importance of considering not only the amount of sugar consumed but also its source and context. According to this study, published in the medical journal 'Frontiers', consuming sweetened beverages is worse for health than any other type of sugar and significantly increases the risk of stroke, heart failure, atrial fibrillation (a type of heart rhythm disorder), and abdominal aortic aneurysm (enlargement of a part of the aorta in the abdomen). Dr. Janzi explains, 'Liquid sugars found in sweetened beverages typically create less satiety, making it easier to overconsume them.' She also emphasizes that 'context matters. Sweets are often consumed on special occasions, whereas sweetened beverages are easier to consume regularly and without occasion.' Another interesting finding of this study is that individuals who occasionally eat sweets are healthier than those who never consume sweet foods. However, Dr. Janzi stresses that this is an observational study and cannot prove causation: 'People who consume very little sugar may also balance their intake of other foods.' Maya Vadilo, chair of the Nutrition and Lifestyle Committee at the American Heart Association, states, 'Sugar consumption should be considered in the diet, and in this regard, balance and awareness in food choices are important and should be paired with other healthy food choices and exercise.' Despite these findings, while small amounts of sugar in a healthy diet may be beneficial for the heart, it does not mean that individuals should start adding sweets or other sweet foods to their diets. According to the Sugar Beet Research and Seed Improvement Institute of the Ministry of Agriculture Jihad of the Islamic Republic, in 2021, the per capita sugar consumption in Iran was 29 kilograms per year, which is 9.5 kilograms higher than the global average.