**Study Shows Sugary Drinks Can Damage Even Healthy Hearts**
A new study has found that drinking sugary drinks, even in moderation, can damage the heart, even in people who are otherwise healthy.
The study, which was published in the journal Circulation, followed over 100,000 people for an average of 12 years. During that time, the researchers found that people who drank one sugary drink per day had a 20% higher risk of developing heart disease, compared to people who did not drink sugary drinks.
The risk of heart disease was even higher for people who drank two or more sugary drinks per day. These people had a 35% higher risk of developing heart disease, compared to people who did not drink sugary drinks.
The study also found that the risk of heart disease was higher for people who drank diet soda, compared to people who did not drink diet soda. This suggests that artificial sweeteners may also be harmful to the heart.
The researchers say that their findings are important because they show that sugary drinks can damage the heart, even in people who are otherwise healthy. They recommend that people limit their intake of sugary drinks and choose healthier alternatives, such as water or unsweetened tea.
**How Sugary Drinks Damage the Heart**
Sugary drinks can damage the heart in several ways. First, they can lead to weight gain. Obesity is a major risk factor for heart disease.
Second, sugary drinks can increase inflammation. Inflammation is a major factor in the development of heart disease.
Third, sugary drinks can damage the blood vessels. This damage can lead to the development of heart disease.
**The Bottom Line**
Sugary drinks are harmful to the heart, even in people who are otherwise healthy. It is important to limit your intake of sugary drinks and choose healthier alternatives, such as water or unsweetened tea.
**Tips for Limiting Your Intake of Sugary Drinks**
* Read food labels carefully. Many foods and drinks that are marketed as healthy actually contain added sugar.
* Choose water or unsweetened tea over sugary drinks.
* Limit your intake of fruit juice. Fruit juice contains natural sugars, but it is still high in calories.
* Make your own smoothies and juices at home. This way, you can control the amount of sugar that is added.
* Avoid sugary drinks when you are eating out.
* Wean yourself off of sugary drinks gradually. If you try to quit cold turkey, you are more likely to relapse.
By following these tips, you can reduce your intake of sugary drinks and improve your heart health..
