Abstract
This review of the recent literature assesses the impact of additive sugar in the diet of pediatric and adult populations and identifies research needs. Additive sugar in the diet provides additional calories that can contribute to weight gain in both adults and children. Although definitive data are lacking, recent studies suggest that excessive sugar intake may increase not only a risk of obesity but also other medical problems such as cardiovascular disease. The results of some studies appear contraindicative and inconclusive in terms of high intake of sugars, low- or high-carbohydrate diets and/or glycemic load, and effects on health issues. Therefore, additional long-term dietary trials are needed of the effect of different types of carbohydrates. There are studies that are particularly important in terms of lower sugar intake and health effects. There is initial evidence that simple indices of insulin secretion may facilitate weight loss in overweight patients by using targeted dietary recommendations specific for insulin secretion status. Finally, a very high fat, low-carbohydrate diet had positive effects in helping persons with type 2 diabetes mellitus lose weight and improve their blood lipid profiles.