Many people don't consider the consequences when consuming sodas or energy drinks. Annually, Americans drink about 45 gallons of soda each. Surprisingly, soda consumption surpasses water intake, leading to significant health issues.
These beverages can damage not just the bones but nearly every organ in the body.
The Risks of Phosphoric Acid in Soda
The Framingham Osteoporosis Study measured bone mineral density (BMD) in 1,413 women and 1,125 men. Their diet was assessed through a food-frequency questionnaire, adjusted for body mass index (BMI), height, age, caloric intake, physical activity, smoking, alcohol consumption, calcium intake, vitamin D intake, caffeine from non-cola sources, and for women, estrogen use and menopause status.
The research indicated that daily cola consumption was linked to considerably lower BMD in women's hips, who are more susceptible to bone loss than men due to hormonal differences.
It is believed that phosphoric acid in cola may cause calcium to leach from bones, or that excessive phosphorus can inhibit calcium absorption. Additionally, caffeine in sodas, energy drinks, and coffee is thought to accelerate bone loss in women by interfering with calcium absorption and increasing calcium excretion in urine.
Phosphoric acid is present in many whole foods, but an excess can lead to heart and kidney issues, muscle loss, and osteoporosis.
Individuals with absorption problems such as leaky gut, those suffering from osteoporosis or other bone-related conditions, or those over 50, should avoid soda entirely. Cutting out soda and caffeine can help protect against the risks these drinks pose to health.
Beverages to avoid include:
- Colas (Coca-Cola, Pepsi, Dr. Pepper, etc.)
- Energy drinks
- Sports drinks
- Bottled or canned iced tea
- Bottled or canned coffee drinks
Additional Dangers of Drinking These Beverages
In addition to compromising your bone matrix and increasing the risk of osteoporosis, sodas come with several other drawbacks. Not only do they contribute to weight gain, but they also play a role in the development of health issues such as cancer and fatty liver disease.
Weight Gain
Consuming soda can lead to an increase in visceral fat—the fat surrounding the abdomen—which compresses internal organs and heightens the risk of heart disease. Daily intake of soda may contribute to the accumulation of fat in the liver, skeletal muscles, blood triglycerides, and other organs, potentially elevating the risk of cancer.
Caramel coloring, which gives many sodas their brown hue, contains contaminants such as 2-methylimidazole and 4-methylimidazole. These substances have been linked to cancer.
Tooth decay is another concern.
Consuming soda significantly harms tooth enamel and heightens the likelihood of cavity formation. The harmful reaction persists for 20 minutes following each sip, making prolonged soda consumption even more detrimental.
Additionally, Fatty Liver Disease is a concern.
The high levels of synthetic fructose in these beverages can harm the liver when consumed excessively. This fructose is converted into fat that accumulates in the liver, potentially leading to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Type 2 Diabetes
Consuming a single can of soda daily is associated with a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Dementia
Consuming large quantities of sugary drinks can impair memory and decision-making capabilities, potentially leading to conditions such as Alzheimer's disease. Elevated glucose levels are also linked to a heightened risk of dementia.
Alternative Drinks
If you're still looking to satisfy your craving for soft drinks or carbonation, consider healthier alternatives like kombucha or plain seltzer water. You could also choose to make your own naturally sweetened juices or fruit and herb-infused waters. By replacing soda with these healthier choices, you'll likely notice an improvement in how you feel and an increase in your energy levels within just a few days!
