Childhood Consumption of Fruit Juice and Sugary Drinks Increases Risk of Hypertension in Adulthood

For years, parents have been told that 'fruit juice is a healthy alternative.' However, a new study that followed over 25,000 children for up to 25 years is changing this perception. Both sugary drinks and 100% fruit juices increase the risk of high blood pressure in adulthood, while whole fruit has a protective effect.The study used data from the Nurses’ Health Study in the US, which included children of participating families. A total of 25,749 participants were followed from an average age of 12 to an average age of 36. 55% of the participants were female, and 96% were non-Hispanic White. Participants reported their diet, exercise, sleep, and health status in detailed questionnaires every 1-4 years. By 2021, 1,625 participants (6.3%) had been diagnosed with high blood pressure, with an average diagnosis age of 36.Even after considering factors such as physical activity, screen time, sleep, smoking, body weight, and overall diet quality, the link between sugary drinks and fruit juices and high blood pressure remained. The effect of whole fruit and fruit juice is very different, despite both containing natural sugar. Fruit juice contains 'free sugar' and loses most of its fiber and plant compounds during processing. Fiber slows down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream and supports heart health. Whole fruit, on the other hand, retains its natural structure.