Sweet tooth habits might carry a hidden health cost for women. A recent investigation led by researchers from Seoul National University and Mokwon University suggests that a regular diet high in added sugars can significantly elevate the likelihood of developing breast cancer.

The scientific team examined health data from over 71,000 South Korean women between the ages of 40 and 69, tracking their eating patterns and health outcomes over an average span of more than nine years. The study focused on how often participants consumed specific high-sugar items, such as ice cream, sweetened cereals, cookies, cakes, chocolates, and sugary beverages.

According to the findings, women who indulged in high-sugar items more than twice weekly faced a 28% greater chance of a breast cancer diagnosis compared to those who kept such foods to less than once a month. When breaking down the categories, ice cream stood out: participants who consumed it more than once a week experienced a 26% increase in risk. Similarly, those who regularly ate sugar-sweetened breakfast cereals faced a notably higher risk than non-consumers.

However, the source of the sugar mattered greatly. The study found that natural sugars sourced from fruit—which made up nearly half of the participants' average daily sugar intake—did not increase breast cancer risks. Researchers attribute this to the protective compounds found in whole fruits, including dietary fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, which help counter metabolic stresses. In contrast, processed sugary snacks tend to spike insulin resistance and elevate growth factor hormones linked to tumor promotion.

Public health experts behind the study emphasize that fighting breast cancer involves looking beyond simple calorie counts to evaluate the quality of dietary choices. Curbing habitual consumption of processed sweets while maintaining a balanced intake of fresh fruit remains a key recommendation for long-term wellness.

[ⓒ Global Economic Times. 무단전재-재배포 금지]