无糖饮料真的不含糖吗？

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the misconception surrounding "sugar-free" beverages, emphasizing that they may still contain low levels of sugar or sugar substitutes, which can pose health risks, particularly for certain populations [2][4][5]. Group 1: Health Risks of Sugar-Free Beverages - A case of an 18-year-old diabetes patient hospitalized due to long-term consumption of sugar-free drinks illustrates the potential dangers of these products [2]. - Sugar-free beverages are not completely devoid of sugar; they may contain low levels of sugar and often use artificial or natural sweeteners, which can be unsuitable for certain individuals [4][5]. - A study from Australia indicates that daily consumption of sugar-free sweetened beverages increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 38% [4]. Group 2: Consumer Awareness and Behavior - Consumers are increasingly choosing sugar-free options under the impression that they contain no sugar, leading to a lack of awareness about the presence of sugar substitutes [4]. - The marketing of sugar-free products often emphasizes "0 sugar, 0 fat, 0 calories," which can mislead consumers regarding their health implications [3]. - Individuals like Mr. Zeng have begun to scrutinize ingredient lists for sugar substitutes after realizing that some sugar-free drinks do contain them [4]. Group 3: Recommendations for Specific Populations - Certain groups, including children, pregnant women, and individuals with specific health conditions, are advised against consuming sugar-free beverages due to potential health risks [5]. - Children may experience adverse effects on taste development and increased likelihood of obesity from long-term consumption of sugar substitutes [5]. - Pregnant women and individuals with a history of thrombosis or cardiovascular issues may face additional risks from consuming sugar-free drinks containing specific sweeteners [5].