The popularity of soft drinks increases year after year. So does the number of health problems related to it. Previous studies linked it to obesity and osteoporosis. A new finding by researchers says it increases risk of kidney damage in women. The study, published in the October 17 edition of PLoS ONE, established a direct link between an increase in these diseases and the high consumption of fructose corn syrup, the sweetener used in sodas. Women who reported drinking two or more sodas within 24 hours were 1.86 times more likely to have albuminuria—a disease in which the kidneys are unable to filter out albumin (large protein molecules). The study did not find men at risk, the reason for which is unclear. Further studies are required.

Source: Down To Earth,
Date: March, 2009