An article in the British paper The Independent that suggested drinking certain soft drinks could damage a person's DNA.

The problem lies with an ingredient found in many sodas - including Sprite, Dr. Pepper and Dr. Browns - sodium benzoate (also referred to as E211). British researchers believe that sodium benzoate has the ability to "switch off vital parts of DNA." In doing so, the ingredient can lead to liver disease and degenerative diseases such as Parkinson's.

NetSweat.com Comments: We have not seen any supporting evidence for this claim and cannot say whether or not there is validity to it. Rather, we suggest you read the article yourself and form your own conclusion.

This said, we encourage you reduce your consumption of soda, if not completely eliminate it. Soda provides empty calories, it is harmful to teeth and there is no nutritious benefit.