A new study reported in General Dentistry suggests that sugary beverages could increase the risk of Alzheimer's. The researchers were trying to determine if high sugar consumption in an otherwise normal diet could impact Alzheimer's progression.

They found that mice that consumed a diet that was 10 percent sugar water gained more weight, had higher cholesterol, and developed insulin resistance. In other words, they became classic diabetics. Sound like a familiar pattern? What's more, the mice showed a decline in learning and memory retention, and their brains contained OVER TWICE as many amyloid plaque deposits – a hallmark of Alzheimer's.

Now you're thinking, "Hold on, Dr. D. – I don't have a diet that contains 10 percent sugar water. This test is bunk!" Actually, the human equivalent of the mouse diet would be about five cans of soda a day – a lot, to be sure. But even if you don't drink that much soda, there are plenty of other ways we funnel sugar down our throats, and it all ads up.

I saw another report the other day that pointed out that Americans are now drinking about 20 percent of their total caloric intake. And sugary beverages – of which there are so many these days – are everywhere. And don't forget: Those sports drinks may be refreshing, but they're like drinking a Milky Way bar. And I'm sure you don't think about it much, but fruit juices, like orange and grapefruit, can be tossed into this category as well.

Whether it's your teeth or your brain … you should think twice the next time you reach for a drink.

Quenching your thirst for the truth.

Dr. William Campbell Douglass II