What's Happening?
A recent study presented at UEG Week 2025 has revealed that both sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) and low- or no-sugar-sweetened beverages (LNSSBs) are linked to a higher risk of developing metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD).
The research involved 123,788 adults from the UK Biobank, who were initially free of liver disease. Participants' beverage consumption was tracked through dietary questionnaires, and the study found that individuals consuming more than 250 grams of either type of beverage daily had a significantly increased risk of MASLD. Specifically, LNSSB consumers had a 60% higher risk, while SSB consumers had a 50% higher risk. Over a median follow-up of 10.3 years, 1,178 participants developed MASLD, and 108 died from liver-related causes. The study highlights that LNSSBs, often perceived as healthier, may pose a greater risk to liver health than previously understood.
Why It's Important?
The findings of this study are significant as they challenge the common perception that diet sodas are a healthier alternative to regular sugary drinks. With MASLD becoming the most prevalent chronic liver condition globally, affecting over 30% of the population, understanding dietary impacts is crucial. The study suggests that both SSBs and LNSSBs contribute to liver fat accumulation, with LNSSBs potentially altering the gut microbiome and affecting insulin secretion. This research underscores the need for public health strategies to limit the consumption of both types of beverages to prevent liver disease and promote overall metabolic health. The study also emphasizes the benefits of replacing these drinks with water, which significantly reduces the risk of MASLD.
What's Next?
The researchers plan to further investigate the causal mechanisms behind these findings through long-term, randomized, and genetic trials. They aim to explore how sugar and its substitutes interact with the gut microbiome and influence liver disease. This future research could provide deeper insights into the biological processes involved and inform more effective dietary guidelines and public health policies.
