Study shows kids who eat a lot of salty foods may be more attracted to sugary soft drinks

More salt leads to more sugary drinks?

Copyright 2012 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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Posted: 12/10/2012

High levels of sodium isn't healthy for anyone's diet, adult or child.  New research shows that kids who eat foods with lots of salt may also be drawn to drink sweet, sugary drinks.

Researchers looked at the diets of more than 4,000 children.  They found that kids who consumed more salt also consumed more fluids.  And when kids got thirsty, they went for the sweetened beverages.  This can increase their risk for obesity.

"The biggest salty-food offenders for children are potato chips, French fries, processed foods and cheese" said Tara Harwood, a registered dietician with Cleveland Clinic.  "So, cut out the pizza, the cheese and crackers and replace it with something that has less sodium, such as chicken or vegetables."

Dieticians say if parents reduce their child's salt intake, it could eventually curb their desire for sugary drinks.

Copyright 2012 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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