​Habitual drinking of sugar and artificially-sweetened soda may promote weight gain and obesity.

This study evaluated the effect of generous intake of sugar and artificially-sweetened beverages on the likelihood of developing obesity. Researchers reviewed data obtained eleven studies that examined the relationship between sugary beverage intake and obesity risk.

Researchers observed that the odds of developing obesity were high in individuals who regularly drank high amounts of sugar and artificially-sweetened soda. The results of this meta-analysis suggest that increased consumption of sugary beverages may contribute to the rise in the incidence of obesity in the general population.