A recent study published in Cell Metabolism suggests that gut microbiota may play a crucial role in the relationship between the consumption of sugary drinks and diabetes risk. Researchers analyzed the microbiota of Hispanic adults in the U.S. and found that high consumption of these beverages was associated with changes in the abundance of nine gut bacterial species, some of which are essential for glucose metabolism.
Changes in Microbiota and Their Metabolic Impact
The results indicated that drinking two or more sugary beverages per day was linked to a lower presence of four species of bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). These substances have been shown to be beneficial for blood glucose regulation and insulin resistance. Their reduction creates a metabolic environment more prone to inflammation and dysfunction.
Furthermore, other bacterial species associated with sugary drink consumption were linked to metabolites that can increase diabetes risk, such as branched-chain amino acid derivatives and glycerophospholipids. These compounds have been identified in previous studies as risk factors for metabolic diseases.
Differences Based on the Source of Sugar
Interestingly, the negative effects observed in microbiota and metabolites did not appear when sugar was consumed from solid foods. This suggests that the composition and form of sugar intake play a crucial role in its effects on gut and metabolic health.
A New Approach to Diabetes Prevention
These findings reinforce the need to consider gut microbiota in diabetes prevention strategies. While health policies have promoted the reduction of sugary drink consumption, this study provides a new perspective: it is not just about the amount of sugar ingested but how it influences the gut ecosystem and its impact on metabolic regulation.
As research in this field advances, understanding the interaction between diet, microbiota, and metabolic diseases could open the door to new interventions to reduce diabetes risk and improve public health.
Associate Professor at University of Granada