Sugary Drinks Raise Blood Pressure

Sweetened beverages, like soda and fruit drinks, may increase your risk of high blood pressure, claims a new study.

Findings showed that every "extra" can of sugary soda consumed increased both systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Preventions warns that any drink containing high-fructose corn syrup, fructose, fruit juice concentrates, honey, sugar, syrup, corn syrup, sucrose, or dextrose is considered a "sugar-sweetened beverage."

Published in the journal Hypertension, researchers reviewed data on 2,696 volunteers, ages 40 to 59, from United States and Britain. And over three weeks, study participants were asked four times to report what they had eaten in the last 24 hours, give urine samples, and have their blood pressure checked.

Data revealed for every extra can of soda or sugary beverage drank each day, individuals had an average of 1.6 mmHg higher systolic blood pressure reading and an average of 0.8 mmHg higher diastolic reading. So the researchers recommend people limit soda consumption.

Additionally, the scientists found that people who consumed more sugary drinks typically had unhealthier diets; more calories and less fiber and minerals.

The American Heart Association encourages reduced intake of added sugar due to potential health risks, including high blood pressure, stroke, obesity, and cardiovascular disease.

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