Sugary foods linked to heart disease risk in women: study

Updated at: 1245 PST, Saturday, April 17, 2010
WASHINTON: Consuming large amounts of certain high-carbohydrate foods is associated with an increased risk of heart disease in women, a new study has revealed.

The study showed an increased incidence of coronary disease in women -- but not men - whose diet is rich in foods with a 'high glycemic index,' such as white bread, sweets and some sugary breakfast cereals.

High-carbohydrate diets increase the levels of blood glucose and of harmful blood fats known as triglycerides while reducing levels of protective HDL or "good" cholesterol, thereby increasing heart disease risk, according to background information in the article. However, not all carbohydrates have the same effect on blood glucose levels.

Overall carbohydrate intake, glycemic index and glycemic load were not associated with heart disease risk in men.