Skip the soda.

The weight gain-soda connection.

Research proves time and again that people who drink sodas tend to gain weight. It should come as no surprise then that while Americans have been getting heavier for the last 30 years, soft drink consumption has risen too.

It’s easy to figure out why drinking more sweetened soft drinks would cause weight gain. After all, one extra can of soda, tea or fruit punch can add 150 or more calories to your day or 1 pound per month.

As for diet soda, a study conducted by the University of Texas and University of Pittsburgh found a 41 percent increase in the risk of being overweight for every can or bottle of diet soft drink a person consumed each day. Some experts speculate that these sweet diet sodas may make your body crave more calories.

It’s just one more reason to skip the soda and drink water.