A new study suggests sodas sweetened with high fructose corn syrup may contribute to the development of diabetes.

The syrup is the sweetener many companies use instead of sugar when making products.

But some say high fructose corn syrup is wrongly being singled out.

High fructose corn syrup, the sweetener found in many of the favorite soft drinks adults and children love is the latest ingredient to come under scrutiny in America’s diet.

A study from researchers at Rutgers University shows sodas sweetened with high fructose corn syrup contain high levels of compounds that previous research suggests may play a role in the development of diabetes. Especially when consumed in large amounts.

Dr. Ronald Cobbs is not affiliated with the latest study, but treats obese and diabetic patients at North General Hospital in Harlem. He believes the sweetener can pose a health risk, just like sugar.

"It's just a cheaper substitute for sugar. And they feel they can drink a lot of it and they are getting overweight because of it and diabetic because of it,” says Cobbs.

The Corn Refiners Association and the American Beverage Association sharply dismissed the study; saying in releases Thursday there is absolutely no unique link between soft drinks sweetened with high fructose corn syrup and diabetes.

One nutrition expert not associated with this new research says the results of one study are not definitive.

"Test tube studies are not the final word and we have to be careful about over-interpreting what the results really mean,” says Dr. Maureen Storey from the University of Maryland.

One point where most scientists and doctors agree is that Americans are consuming too many calories, whether in the form of sodas, fatty foods, or sweets.

"The bottom line, watch your total calorie intake, limit added sugars, whether it's in the form of high fructose corn syrup or table sugar and just eat a variety of healthy foods we know are good for us,” says dietitian Elisa Zied.

That, along with exercise, will help work off extra calories if you had too much of a good thing.