The researchers found that people who drink 24 ounces or more of sugary beverages each day have twice the risk of death from heart disease than those who drink less than 1 ounce of sugary drinks per day. The study also found an increased risk of death from all causes, including other cardiovascular conditions.

Study co-author Suzanne Judd, PhD, associate professor of biostatistics at the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s School of Public Health, says the research is important for both consumers and health care providers.

“Health care providers should talk to their patients about intake of sugary and sweetened drinks and foods,” Judd said. “Reminding them to limit sweetened drinks and foods to no more than 400 total calories per day is ideal. If their patients aren’t sure what types of drinks and foods to limit, providers should refer them to a nutritionist to get help with their diets.”