Consumption of sugary sports drinks may be linked to negative effects among healthy adolescents, according to a study published in the journal Pediatrics.

For this trial, researchers enrolled young people in 8th and 11th grades who exercise regularly and follow a proper diet to determine how they are affected by these beverages. The investigators observed the activity level of each participant, as well as their consumption of unhealthy and healthy foods and drinks.

The results showed that 28 percent of the individuals drank three or more sugary drinks per day. Among boys, drinking soda increased from 8th to 11th grade, while sugary drink consumption remained the same between girls in both grades.

Furthermore, drinking sweetened sports beverages was steady among both age groups of boys, while the consumption of these drinks declined as the girls got older. As a result, the increased consumption caused reverse effects on eating healthy and staying physically active.

Because these beverages are often meant to lead to a healthy lifestyle, the researchers suggest that consumers read nutritional labels prior to purchasing sports drinks. They concluded that by recognizing the beverage contents, parents may be able to protect their children against unnecessary weight gain.

Approximately 17 percent of Americans aged 2-19 are considered obese, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention reports.