Consuming sugar-sweetened beverages during childhood has been associated with the development of unhealthy dietary patterns, which can elevate the risk of obesity in later stages of life, as indicated by a recent investigation conducted by the School of Psychology at Swansea University.
Published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, this research tracked the dietary influences on a cohort of 14,000 British children from infancy to adulthood, marking it as one of the most extensive studies of its nature to date.
Utilising the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children, the team of researchers uncovered several noteworthy findings:
Firstly, it was observed that children who consumed carbonated drinks like cola or sugar-laden fruit cordials before reaching the age of two tended to exhibit increased weight gain by the time they reached 24. Interestingly, girls who consumed pure fruit juice exhibited lesser weight gain, while boys did not display significant weight changes.
Furthermore, toddlers who consumed cola at three demonstrated higher calorie, fat, protein, and sugar intake but lower fibre consumption. Conversely, those given pure apple juice exhibited reduced fat and sugar intake but consumed higher levels of fibre.
The study also shed light on the differing dietary preferences associated with these beverage choices. Children who consumed pure apple juice tended to follow diets comprising more fish, fruits, green vegetables, and salads. In contrast, those consuming cola preferred burgers, sausages, pizza, french fries, meat, chocolate, and sweets.
Moreover, the research team identified a correlation between sugar-sweetened beverage consumption and social deprivation, noting that children from more affluent backgrounds were more likely to have access to pure fruit juice.
Lead researcher Professor David Benton remarked, “Early dietary habits establish patterns that have enduring effects on weight regulation throughout life. It is imperative to encourage the development of healthy dietary habits from infancy, promoting lower fat and sugar consumption. However, it’s important to note that pure fruit juice, as part of one’s recommended daily intake of fruits and vegetables, contributes essential nutrients such as vitamin C, potassium, folate, and plant polyphenols.”
Dr Hayley Young added, “Obesity poses significant health risks and can predispose individuals to various other medical conditions. Our findings underscore the critical role of early childhood diet in shaping the trajectory towards adult obesity. To effectively address this issue, greater emphasis must be placed on promoting healthy dietary practices during the formative years of life.”
More information: David Benton et al, Early exposure to sugar sweetened beverages or fruit juice differentially influences adult adiposity, European Journal of Clinical Nutrition. DOI: 10.1038/s41430-024-01430-y
Journal information: European Journal of Clinical Nutrition Provided by Swansea University
