New Zealand researchers found high consumption of sugar-sweetened soft drinks increased the risk for gout. Even carriers of the genetically protective allele (SLC2A9) experienced significantly increased gout risk. Four sugar sweetened sodas a day increased the risk of gout in those of Caucasian ancestry almost 7 fold. When all groups were combined, each sugary drink consumed per day increased the risk by 12% and 15% (noncarriers and carriers, respectively).
PositiveTip: Sodas provide little nutrition. Avoid consuming them whenever possible.