BACKGROUND Previous studies in adults and older children find that sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption increases risk for obesity and cellular aging, as measured by leukocyte telomere length (LTL). METHODS In… Click to show full abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies in adults and older children find that sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption increases risk for obesity and cellular aging, as measured by leukocyte telomere length (LTL). METHODS In a previously described, San Francisco-based Latino birth cohort, where telomere length was measured at birth, we evaluate the relationship between beverage consumption (including SSB and 100% fruit juice), obesity, and LTL at 2-3 years old, as well as change in LTL from birth. LTL (T/S Ratio) was measured in 61 children (mean 2.4 years ±0.6 standard deviation). Multivariable linear regression models are used to ascertain beverage type and obesity as independent predictors of LTL and change in LTL. RESULTS Mean telomere length was 1.58 ± 0.20 (T/S Ratio) and mean yearly change was -0.08 ± -0.09 (T/S Ratio). Predictors of shorter telomere length at age 2-3 included increased consumption of SSB (Beta Coeff = -0.009 95% CI [-0.02 to -0.0008]; p = 0.03). Telomere length at birth was the strongest predictor of rate of attrition from birth to 2-3 years of age and males tended to have more rapid attrition. CONCLUSION Excessive SSB consumption impacts early childhood immune system health adversely, possibly before the development of obesity.
               
Click one of the above tabs to view related content.