People with a preference for sweet foods are at a heightened risk of developing depression, diabetes, and experiencing strokes, according to new research from the University of Surrey. This study, published in the Journal of Translational Medicine, analyzed anonymized data from 180,000 volunteers in the UK Biobank, using artificial intelligence to categorize participants into three main dietary profiles: Health-conscious, Omnivore, and Sweet Tooth.
Study Profiles Defined
Health-conscious: Individuals who prefer fruits and vegetables over animal-based and sugary foods.
Omnivore: Those who enjoy a wide variety of foods, including meats, fish, and sweets.
Sweet Tooth: Individuals who favor sweet foods and sugary beverages, showing less interest in healthier options like fruits and vegetables.
The research team examined UK Biobank blood sample data, analyzing 2,923 proteins and 168 metabolites to assess how levels of these substances varied across the three groups.
The Role of Proteins and Metabolites
Proteins are vital for various bodily functions, including infection defense, muscle contraction, and cognitive processes. Metabolites are small molecules produced during digestion and other biochemical processes, offering insights into overall bodily function. By comparing these proteins and metabolites, the researchers gained a clearer understanding of the biological differences among the dietary preference groups.
Key Findings
Professor Nophar Geifman, the senior author and a Professor of Health and Biomedical Informatics at the University of Surrey, noted, “The foods you prefer seem to have a direct link to your health. If your favorite foods include cakes, sweets, and sugary drinks, our study suggests that this could negatively impact your health.”
Among the significant findings:
- Individuals in the Sweet Tooth group were found to be 31% more likely to suffer from depression compared to the other two groups.
- They also exhibited higher rates of diabetes and cardiovascular conditions.
- Blood tests revealed that the Sweet Tooth group had increased levels of C-reactive protein, an inflammation marker, alongside elevated glucose levels and poor lipid profiles, indicating potential risks for diabetes and heart disease.
Conversely, the Health-conscious group, which had a higher intake of dietary fiber, demonstrated lower risks for heart failure, chronic kidney diseases, and strokes. The Omnivore group presented moderate health risks.
Sugar Intake in the UK
According to the British Nutrition Foundation, approximately 9% to 12.5% of calories consumed by individuals in the UK come from free sugars, defined as sugars added to food or drinks. Biscuits, cakes, pastries, and fruit pies are significant contributors to this intake, while sugary soft drinks and alcoholic beverages collectively represent the largest sources of free sugars.
Conclusion
The findings underscore the importance of understanding the impact of dietary preferences on health outcomes. “Processed sugar plays a crucial role in many diets,” stated Professor Geifman. “Our results reinforce the need for individuals to consider their food choices carefully, not as directives, but as valuable information for healthier living.”
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