Private MD News

Studies link sugar to unhealthy cholesterol test scores

Category: Heart Health and Cholesterol

There is a well-established link between excessive sugar consumption and conditions like obesity and diabetes. However, experts are beginning to warn that too much sweetened food may also lead to unhealthy cholesterol test scores.

A team of researchers from Tufts University recently conducted a study in which they supplemented participants' diets with either three teaspoons of sugar per day or 46 teaspoons, according to the Winnipeg Free Press. Those on the high-sugar regimen ended up with much higher triglycerides and lower HDL, commonly known as good cholesterol.

A 2010 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found similar results connecting excessive sugar consumption and high cholesterol, according to USA Today.

The researchers told the news source that when people think about reducing cholesterol, their main focus is often on fats. However, given the fact that so many foods today have sugar added, it is important to keep in mind sugar consumption when considering heart health.

Heart disease, which is often caused by high cholesterol, is the leading cause of death in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Limiting sugar could play an important role in curbing this trend.