In recent years, the topic of healthy eating has been actively discussed, with countless recommendations available online. However, some foods traditionally considered healthy may have effects on the body that are far from what consumers expect. In some cases, there is even an increased risk of serious illnesses, including cancer.
According to a study published in the British Medical Journal, drinking fruit juices may be associated with an increased overall risk of developing cancer.
Specialists at the Sorbonne Paris Cité Center for Epidemiology and Statistical Studies in France conducted the study. The researchers analyzed the possible link between sugary beverage consumption and the development of various types of cancer. The study involved over 100,000 adults in France.
The researchers focused on freshly squeezed juices without added sugar, syrups, milkshakes, protein shakes, energy drinks, and products with low-calorie sweeteners.
The participants completed detailed questionnaires about their diets, after which their health was monitored for nine years. During this time, the researchers tracked the development of breast, prostate, and colorectal cancer.
To ensure the results were as accurate as possible, the specialists considered additional factors that could influence the findings: age, gender, education level, family history, unhealthy habits, and physical activity.
Analysis of the collected data revealed unexpected results. It turned out that drinking beverages with artificial sweeteners showed no significant association with an increase in cancer incidence. At the same time, regular consumption of freshly squeezed fruit juices was statistically associated with an increased risk of developing certain cancers, particularly breast cancer.