Indulging in sweet treats like cake, chocolate and cookies could lower the risk of heart disease and stroke, according to a surprising new study.
Researchers from Lund University found that consuming sugary snacks twice a day was associated with a 25% reduced risk of ischemic stroke and a 22% lower chance of heart attack, The Telegraph reported.
The study, published in Frontiers in Public Health, followed nearly 70,000 Swedes for up to 22 years analyzing their sugar consumption and its link to cardiovascular health. While sugar from sweetened beverages like soda and fruit juice was linked to an increased risk of heart failure and other conditions, sugar from pastries, chocolates and jams seemed to offer protective benefits.
For instance, topping your morning porridge with marmalade or enjoying a sweet pastry regularly was associated with an 11% lower risk of heart failure and a 30% reduced risk of aortic stenosis.
However, researchers cautioned that the findings only show correlation, not causation. They speculated that liquid sugar from beverages may lead to weight gain and obesity, known risk factors for cardiovascular disease, while sugar in treats might interact differently with the body.
"The findings of this study indicate that not all sources of added sugar are equally harmful to health," the researchers wrote, calling for more investigation into the potential biological mechanisms behind these results.
Despite the encouraging news for those with a sweet tooth, scientists stress moderation and maintaining a balanced diet.
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