An affliction often associated with the Medieval Age is making a comeback, and sugary drinks may be culpable.
According to a recent study reported in the British Medical Journal, gout, an often painful affliction of the joints, is on the rise and a likely culprit is the sugary additives found in many flavored drink products. Especially those sweetness-enhanced through the use of added fructose or cane sugar. Popular soft drinks stand in the forefront of these.
Medical experts say that added sugars in the diet raise levels of uric acid in the bloodstream, sometimes causing uric acid crystals to be deposited in joints — especially in the lower extremities — resulting in the excruciating joint pain so often associated with the disease. Fructose, for instance, has been clinically shown to inhibit the excretion of uric acid. Incidence of gout has doubled in recent decades, with perhaps one or two percent of the population now affected. Researchers believe that the rise in gout cases largely parallels the increased consumption of sugary soft drinks world-wide.
More proof that the cranky, health food addict aunt we all have hidden away somewhere in the family tree does know a thing or two about nutrition after all!
And while all this might cause some to imagine that even whole fruit and their juices should be avoided, prudence dictates otherwise. The benefits of fruit and vegetables in helping to prevent heart disease, stroke and other chronic disorders is well documented. Moderation would seem to be key, though complete avoidance of processed drinks which include artificially boosted sugar or fructose levels might also be a wise strategy.
As one of the foremost suppliers of wholesome and natural fruit drinks (and snacks) to the vending machine industry, YoNaturals Corporation stands to benefit from any increased awareness of gout risk among knowledgeable consumers. The one-hundred plus varieties of healthy food and drink options distributed by YoNaturals through their distinctive “YoZone” vending machines are specifically designed to meet the needs of active people who care what goes into their bodies.
And each passing day their ranks grow.
In the meantime, infusing flavored drink products with unnatural amounts of sweeteners may remain a winning strategy for some. But will the mounting evidence of unhealthy outcomes provide fodder for future group action lawsuits?
Mother Nature already seems to have picked which side she’ll be on.
