Soda may be refreshing and tasty, but drinking it daily comes with a long list of potential health consequences.
If you’re reaching for a can every day, here are some things you should know about what it’s really doing to your body.
Damages your teeth and gums
Soda is both acidic and packed with sugar – a harmful combo for your oral health.
The acid and sugar erode tooth enamel and contribute to cavities and tooth loss.
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Soda can also decrease saliva production, making it harder for your mouth to fight bacteria, while irritating your gums and causing inflammation, bleeding and even gum recession.
Increases the risk of stomach irritation
The high carbonation levels in soda can irritate your stomach lining and worsen conditions like gastritis, acid reflux and ulcers.
If you already struggle with digestive issues, drinking soda may trigger discomfort, bloating and inflammation.
Spikes blood sugar and strains insulin response
A single can of soda often contains more added sugar than what health experts recommend per day.
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This sugar hits your bloodstream fast, causing a blood sugar spike followed by an insulin surge.
Over time, this can lead to insulin resistance and a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Negatively affects cholesterol levels
Drinking soda regularly has been linked to higher triglyceride levels and lower HDL (good) cholesterol.
If excess sugar isn’t burned off, the liver converts it to fat, which can accumulate and raise your risk of fatty liver disease and cardiovascular issues.
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Disrupts your gut microbiome
Even diet sodas aren’t free from risk. Research suggests that artificial sweeteners in these drinks may negatively impact your gut bacteria and glycemic control.
This can lead to metabolic dysfunction, including weight gain, insulin resistance and a higher risk of chronic diseases.
Causes cravings and energy crashes
Rapid blood sugar spikes from soda can lead to sudden energy crashes, mood swings and increased cravings for more sugar.
This rollercoaster effect can make you feel tired, irritable and more prone to overeating, especially sugary foods.
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Contributes to weight gain and belly fat
According to the CDC, daily soda consumption is linked to increased body weight – especially fat stored around the abdomen.
This type of fat is associated with a higher risk of heart disease, diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
May lead to kidney damage
Drinking soda over time can stress your kidneys due to high levels of sugar and, in some cases, phosphoric acid.
This may increase your risk of kidney disease or impair kidney function, particularly when soda is consumed in large amounts.
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Can dehydrate you
Though it’s a liquid, soda – especially caffeinated varieties – can be dehydrating.
The combination of sugar and caffeine can act as a diuretic, increasing urine output and potentially reducing your overall hydration levels.
Alters taste preferences and increases sugar tolerance
As your taste buds adapt to high levels of sugar, naturally sweet foods may begin to taste bland.
This can make you crave even more sugary drinks and snacks, reinforcing a cycle that’s hard to break and harmful to your long-term health.
Article based on information from Eatingwell.com.