We all know by now that it is not a good idea to let kids have too much candy. Obesity, juvenile diabetes and hyperactivity are all potential side effects. But now a study conducted by researchers at Cardiff University suggests that children who eat too many sweets as a child may also develop a propensity for violence in later life.

The study focused upon the habits of more than 17,500 people born in 1970. Those who when asked admitted to having indulged in sugary treats every day were found to be ten times more likely to have been convicted of a violent crime before their 34th birthday. An astonishing 69 percent of the 17,500 ate sweets every day.

Not that is necessarily all the candy’s fault. Some psychologists say that if children are given sweet treats when they demand them, or worse still as a reward for everyday good behavior they fail to learn to “defer gratification” and become pushy, obnoxious and all too often violently aggressive.

Still the researchers from Cardiff think that there work warrants more research. According to lead author Simon Moore “This association between confectionary consumption and violence needs further attention. Targeting resources at improving children’s diet may improve health and reduce aggression.”