Assessing the evidence for sugar-sweetened beverages in the aetiology of obesity, a question of control

Abstract

Periera reviews the literature concerning the role of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) in the aetiology of obesity. There is currently a limited evidence base on which to assess this association. The majority of data published to date relates to cross-sectional and prospective epidemiological studies, which makes clear interpretation of the likely relative impact of SSB on the development of obesity difficult. Whereas a number of these studies do show a positive association, several also fail to find a relationship. Randomized controlled trials offer the best opportunity to assess the causal link between SSB consumption and obesity. However, in general, these data are flawed by the lack of appropriate positive controls to determine whether it is the beverage itself or any energy source causing the measured changes. Furthermore, given the complexity of design, and cost of intervention studies, these studies tend to have been of relatively short duration and have used large energy load interventions that may not be representative of consumption patterns of most individuals. Further studies are therefore required in order to determine the relative impact of SSB on the development of obesity.