In a study from the University of Toronto and Harvard University, scientists found that sugar-sweetened beverages promote weight gain in children and adults.
The review is the largest and most thorough analysis to date of research on sweetened drinks, and overweight and obesity—both of which heighten risks for diabetes, heart disease, some cancers and other diseases.
In the study, the team found an association between sugary drinks and weight gain, among adults and children.
In cohort studies, which follow people over long periods of time, each serving-per-day increase in sugary drinks was linked to a 0.42-kg (almost one-pound) higher body weight in adults.
In children, the team found a 0.07-unit higher body-mass index (just under one-twelfth of a BMI unit).
They also showed that weight gain increases with increasing levels of sugary drink intake, in both children and adults. The finding provides strong evidence for a cause-and-effect relationship.
The team estimated the associated change in body weight over a one-year period. For adults, one additional 12-ounce serving a day was linked to a 0.20-kg higher body weight (about half a pound) in one year.
Although these results may seem modest, weight gain is a gradual process, with adults averaging about one pound (0.45 kg) of weight gain per year.
The team says limiting sugary drink intake could be an effective way to prevent age-related weight gain.
Limiting sugary drink intake among children is also an important strategy to help them develop healthy lifestyle habits and weight trajectories.
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The study was conducted by Vasanti Malik et al and published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
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