Rising temperatures are driving Americans to consume significantly more sugar, according to new research published in Nature Climate Change. The study by researchers from the US and United Kingdom found that warmer weather leads to increased consumption of sugary beverages and frozen desserts, totaling more than 100 million additional pounds of sugar annually compared to 15 years earlier. Sugar intake rises as temperatures climb between 54 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit, then decreases above 86 degrees. Study co-author Duo Chan from the University of Southampton states: “Climate change is shaping what you eat and how you eat.” The research shows lower-income families consume several times more added sugar during hot weather than wealthy households. Just one extra sugary drink daily increases diabetes risk by 29% among poorer Americans. (Story URL)

PHONE TOPIC: What do you like to eat and drink when the weather gets hot?