A new study out in the journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention reports that the more sugar-sweetened beverages a woman drinks, the greater her risk for endometrial cancer.

We seem to have gotten used to the fact that sugar-laden drinks make us fat, which in turn adds to a woman’s higher risk for diabetes and heart disease. It’s time to add another deadly consequence to a daily consumption of soda and other non-diet soft drinks.

Women who drink the most sugary drinks – more than four servings per week – had a 78% greater risk of developing estrogen-dependent type I endometrial cancer than women who drank none. This is especially true in older, menopausal women who are overweight.

Despite the urban myths that diet soft drinks present dire risks, there is just not enough evidence to prove it. The best rule of thumb, too much soda, diet or not is just not a good thing. A healthier alternative is water or tea infused with raw fruit or herbs. Unsweetened fruit juice and club soda is also a good choice. Try the recipe below for a tasty infused drink:

General formula for whatever fruit/herb combo you desire.

  1. If using herbs, add a sprig of fresh herbs to jar/pitcher; press and twist with muddler or handle of wooden spoon to bruise leaves and release flavor; don’t pulverize the herbs into bits.
  2. Add approx. 2 cups of fruit to jar/pitcher; press and twist with muddler or handle of wooden spoon, just enough to release some of the juices
  3. Fill jar/pitcher with ice cubes.
  4. Add water to top of jar/pitcher.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

More recipes at: http://www.theyummylife.com/recipes/251/Easy+Fruit+%26+Herb+Flavored+Water

Sources:

http://www.medpagetoday.com/HematologyOncology/OtherCancers/43086

http://www.foxnews.com/health/2013/11/22/sugary-drinks-linked-to-increased-endometrial-cancer-risk/