A daily intake of sugary drinks can lead to high levels of visceral belly fat, according to a recent study from the British Heart Association.

The study said that there is a direct correlation between regular sugary beverage intake and a change in visceral adipose tissue in middle age adults. In contrast, the study observed no such association for sugar-free beverages.’ The present study supports current dietary recommendations that limiting sugar-sweetened beverage consumption may be helpful to prevent cardio-metabolic diseases’ the British Heart Association was quoted as saying.

Abdominal adipose tissue, especially visceral adipose tissue (VAT), commonly referred to as belly fat, has been linked to type-2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and other health problems. The study said both the quantity and quality of the belly fat are associated with cardio-metabolic health risks.