A lot of people turn to sweets when they’re looking for a pick-me-up. But doctors are warning that excess consumption of sugar can lead to a higher risk of endometrial and breast cancer for women.
Sweet snacks and bubble tea are common treats for people in Taiwan. Many say they consume them at least three or four times a week.
However, having a sweet tooth could lead to serious health risks, especially for women. A study by the Karolinska Institute in Sweden has found that eating sugary snacks even two to three times a week can increase the risk of endometrial cancer, in the lining of the uterus, by about 33%. Eating sweets more than four times a week raises the risk by 42%.
Local gynecologist Yin Chang-sheng says that a large amount of sugar causes a spike in insulin, which in turn disrupts ovulation and increases the risk of cancer. He says that an excess of sugar also increases the risk for other diseases, like breast cancer, vaginitis and osteoporosis.
The health ministry recommends limiting daily sugar to less than 10% of total caloric intake. The ministry also recommends daily exercise to help the body process sugar.