Health Alert: Sugary Drinks Linked to 180,000 Deaths Worldwide

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Sugary drinks are linked to more than 180,000 obesity-related deaths worldwide each year, according to new research by the American Heart Association. Among the world's 35 largest countries, the U.S. ranked third in having the highest deaths from sweetened beverages; Mexico took the top spot. When people drink too many beverages containing added sugar, such as soda, fruit drinks, energy or sports beverages, they tend to put on weight and, according to some scientists, these added pounds can increase the risk of developing diabetes, cardiovascular disease and some cancers. "This means about one in every 100 deaths from obesity-related diseases is caused by drinking sugary beverages," says study author Gitanjali Singh. However, the American Beverage Association has dismissed the research as "more about sensationalism than science." The AHA recommends limiting added sugar to no more than 100 calories a day for women and 150 for men. One 12-ounce regular soda contains the equivalent of 10 teaspoons of sugar and has about 140 calories. (CNN)

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