Drinking sugary beverages starting in childhood may increase adult blood pressure risk

A long-term study from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health indicates that high consumption of sugary beverages during childhood is linked to an increased risk of high blood pressure in adulthood. Replacing these drinks with water or milk can significantly lower this risk.
Why it matters
This research provides actionable public health guidance for parents and policymakers to combat the rising prevalence of hypertension in younger populations.
Hide caption Show caption Kunlathida Petchuen / iStock Jump to Section Share Post LinkedIn Facebook WhatsApp Email Copy link People who drank more fruit juice, soda, and sports drinks beginning in childhood had a greater risk of high blood pressure as adults than those who drank fewer sweet beverages, according to a new study led by researchers from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. The researchers found that replacing one daily sugary beverage with whole fruit, milk, or water lowered risk.
The content is based on peer-reviewed medical research and provides health-related findings without political or social bias.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in