The most common type of diabetes occurs in overweight adults. Sugar intake is not a risk factor for developing heart disease. The primary risk factors are a high blood cholesterol, obesity, smoking, inactivity and being male. We know that sugars and starches are major contributors to tooth decay. Sugars in the mouth are digested by bacteria on the tooth surfaces.
Acid produced by the bacteria causes the enamel to break down, leading to cavities and gum disease.
Sugar that remains on the teeth is actually of more concern than amount of sugar consumed. The acid produced by the bacteria lasts for about 20 minutes each time carbohydrate is eaten. This is true regardless of which carbohydrate-containing food is eaten. Bacterial acid production is present whether the carbohydrate is glucose from concentrated sweets or starches, lactose from milk or fructose from fruit. The stickiness of the sugar also supports bacterial growth.