A groundbreaking international study has revealed that drinking sugar-laden beverages—such as sodas and fruit juices—may sharply increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, more so than consuming sugar through foods. Conducted by a team led by researchers at Brigham Young University in the United States, with collaboration from German partners, the research analyzed health data from over half a million people across multiple continents. The findings carry major implications for public health in Thailand, where sweet drinks are woven into daily routines and the rate of diabetes continues to climb.
Drinking sweetened drinks has long been linked to negative health outcomes, but this new study, published in the journal Advances in Nutrition, is the first to draw a clear “dose-response” relationship: the more sugar consumed through beverages, the higher the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. In contrast, sugar from other sources—including fruits, whole grains, and dairy products—showed no such link or, in some cases, were even associated with a lower risk of diabetes. The lead researcher, a nutritional science professor at Brigham Young University, emphasized this paradigm shift, noting, “It highlights why drinking your sugar, whether from soda or juice, is more problematic for health than eating it” (The Hill).
Why does the body respond so differently to sugar depending on its form? According to the research team, the sugars present in beverages act as isolated sugars, hitting the liver quickly. This rapid influx overwhelms the liver’s metabolic processes, leading to increased liver fat and insulin resistance—a precursor to type 2 diabetes. Unlike sugary drinks, foods such as fruits or grains contain a complex combination of nutrients, including fiber, fats, and proteins. These nutrients slow the absorption of sugar, blunting sugar spikes and preventing metabolic overload (Wikipedia – Sugar-sweetened beverages health effects).
The study is especially relevant in Thailand, where sugar-sweetened beverages are ubiquitous. From bubble tea shops on every corner, cha yen (Thai iced tea) at every street stall, to sugary soft drinks and energy drinks marketed heavily towards youth, sweetened drinks are a cultural touchstone and an everyday indulgence. According to data from the International Diabetes Federation, Thailand has seen a steady rise in type 2 diabetes in recent decades, with sweetened beverages cited as a key factor by public health officials (World Health Organization: Diabetes Country Profiles).
Expert commentary within the study strongly recommends that governments and consumers adopt stricter standards for liquid sugars. The lead author noted, “This study underscores the need for even more stringent recommendations for liquid sugars such as those in sugar-sweetened beverages and fruit juice, as they appear to harmfully associate with metabolic health. Rather than condemning all added sugars, future dietary guidelines might consider the differential effects of sugar based on its source and form.” These comments build on previous guidance from the World Health Organization, which already cautions against excessive sugar-sweetened beverage consumption, associating it with obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic disorders (World Health Organization Newsroom – Sugar Intake Guidelines).
In the Thai context, awareness of the risks posed by sugary drinks is growing, but policies remain fragmented. The Ministry of Public Health has attempted to curb excessive sugar intake through educational campaigns and, since 2017, a tiered excise tax on sugar content in beverages. Data collected since the tax’s implementation suggests a slight drop in sugary drink sales, but consumption remains high, especially among children and teenagers. Officials at the Nutrition Division of the Bureau of Health Promotion have emphasized ongoing challenges: sugary drinks are still widely advertised and accessible, and traditional sweet drinks are deeply integrated into social culture, ceremonies, and local cuisine (Bangkok Post: Sugar taxes in Thailand).
Historically, sugar played a key role in Thai culinary history, especially with the rise of refined sugar production in the 20th century and the subsequent popularity of canned and bottled drinks. Traditionally, sweet flavors balanced the intense spices of Thai cuisine; however, industrialization and mass marketing shifted sugar consumption from occasional treat to daily norm. In recent years, public health advocacy groups and medical professionals have warned that the “liquid candy” culture is unsustainable given its impacts on metabolic diseases.
Researchers and health experts worldwide are now calling for more nuanced dietary guidelines. The latest data from the Global Burden of Disease project illustrates that sugar-sweetened beverage consumption is one of the top dietary risk factors for premature mortality and disability globally. Most health authorities, including those in Thailand, urge individuals to replace sugary drinks with water, herbal teas, or unsweetened beverages.
Looking ahead, the Thai medical community anticipates a surge in lifestyle-related chronic diseases unless consumption patterns change. Policymakers are considering stronger regulations on marketing directed at children and improved labeling laws that clearly differentiate between naturally occurring and added sugars. Government nutritionists advise that while Thai cuisine will undoubtedly continue to celebrate sweet flavors, consumers must become more conscious of how sugar is consumed: eating it with the fiber, vitamins, and minerals found in fruits, whole grains, or dairy is less risky than drinking it in the form of soft drinks, juices, or milk teas (International Diabetes Federation Atlas).
For Thai readers seeking actionable steps, experts recommend several practical strategies:
- Minimize or avoid sugar-sweetened beverages. Opt instead for plain drinking water, unsweetened teas, or infusions with fresh fruits for natural zest without added sugar.
- Read labels closely, noting not just “sugar” but all forms of sweeteners (such as fructose, glucose, syrup).
- Encourage schools, temples, and workplaces to offer healthier drink choices and education on hidden sugars in popular products.
- Parents can model healthy drink choices for children, helping to shape lifelong habits.
- Support policies, including sugar taxes and mandatory clear labeling, to help guide collective behavior.
This new research adds persuasive scientific backing for those calling for a rethink of how Thais and people across Asia approach sweet drinks. Not all sugars are created equal—how sugar enters the body makes a profound difference for metabolic health. Mindful choices today can protect individual and national health for years to come.
For further reading, see the original study as published in Advances in Nutrition, coverage in The Hill and the World Health Organization’s factsheet on healthy diets (WHO), as well as research on Wikipedia – Sugar-sweetened beverages health effects.