Sugary carbonated drinks were already a big NO-NO from diet and health experts for people aiming at losing weight and maintaining overall health. But now experts are also warning against fruit juices. A study reveals that not only are fruit juices unhealthy for you but can also lead to shortening of lifespan. Author of the study, Jean Welsh says, "Older adults who drink more sugary beverages, which include fruit juice as well as sodas and other sugar-sweetened beverages, may be at risk of dying earlier. Efforts to decrease consumption of sodas and other sugar-sweetened beverages should also include fruit juices, and these efforts need to include adults as well as children." Central Railway Bans Lemon Juice and Sale of Other Syrup-Based Juices at Railway Stations.

So the carbonated sweetened drinks aren't just the only ones to be blamed but even the packaged fruit juices can be equally harmful to you. Usually, fruit juices have been associated with its health benefits. However, experts and dietitian in the ast have always advised opting for whole fruit over fruit juices. Moreover, fruit juices that are packaged, laden with colours, artificial sweeteners and flavours are no better than carbonated sugary drinks, colas and sodas.

The report was published online May 17 in JAMA Network Open and the study, conducted by Welsh and her colleagues collected data on 13,440 men and women, average age 64, who were part of a large stroke study from 2003 to 2007.  71%  of these participants were obese or overweight. They were asked about their daily consumption of sugar-sweetened drinks they consumed. After the information was taken, over an average of six years, 1,168 of the participants died and it was found that those who drank the most sugar-sweetened beverages(including the ones that claimed to be 100% fruit juice)  had higher odds of dying.

As per the study, current recommendations suggest "drinking no more than 4 to 6 ounces of juice per day." Guasch-Ferre further say that: "Fruit-based smoothies are commonly seen as healthier options. However, their ingredients can vary substantially and there is limited research on their health effects. Although, fruit juices are not as harmful as sugar-sweetened beverages, consumption should be moderated in both children and adults, especially for individuals who attempt to control their body weight.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 22, 2019 01:48 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).