Globally, added sugar now makes up around 10% of total calories consumed, ranking just behind grains and produce. But while those provide some nourishment, sugar contributes little and harms much. A 2023 Annual Review study warns that sugar—not fat—is driving the chronic disease epidemic. And sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) are the worst offenders.

A 2025 review in Nutrients links regular sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption to poorer sperm health—lower count, reduced motility, and increased DNA damage. Oxidative stress, hormonal disruption, and obesity may be to blame.