Put down that Diet Cherry Vanilla Dr. Pepper, people. A new study shows that even one soda a day -- including both diet and regular varieties -- could boost your risk for heart disease by about 50%. Although just a pop a day may have previously been seen as a moderate habit, it could up your chances for developing metabolic syndrome which could lead to heart disease and diabetes.
What isn't a surprise is that the food and beverage industry is disputing the findings. Regardless, this recent warning only adds to mounting evidence against sugary soft drink consumption. The senior author of the study says increased soda drinking is linked to health epidemics such as obesity, high blood pressure and (this will make you cringe) diabetes in children in teens.
The findings of this study are both fascinating and disturbing. While it may not call on you to quit the Mountain Dew or even the Diet Mountain Dew for good, it may be enough motivation to cut back. And the big gulp (not Big Gulp, come on) is what this could mean for all those kids pulling pop out of a Happy Meal box or the fridge.
