Soda and juice tied to obesity in young children: study

Charlottesville, VA – Preschoolers who regularly consume soda and other sugary drinks have a higher risk of obesity, according to a new study from the University of Virginia, Charlottesville.

Researchers analyzed sugar-sweetened beverage consumption and body mass index scores of 9,600 children 2-5 years old, the study abstract states. Obesity was more common among children who regularly consumed soda, juice and sports drinks, and those who started at age 2 gained more weight over the next two years than infrequent or non-drinkers.

To help avoid excessive weight gain, researchers advised parents to discourage kids from drinking sugary drinks.

The study was published online Aug. 5 in the journal Pediatrics.