Many have heard that sweet carbonated drinks are bad for your teeth. But the truth is that tooth decay is just the tip of the iceberg. Your favorite cola or lemonade inflicts hidden blows on the entire body: from accelerating skin aging to liver damage. Let's figure out what the daily habit of drinking soda really threatens.
Soda rots teeth
Do not self-medicate! In our articles, we collect the latest scientific data and opinions of reputable health experts. But remember: only a doctor can diagnose and prescribe treatment.
Scientists from the University of Birmingham (UK) recently discovered that the effect of soda on teeth may be much stronger than previously thought: regular cola is 10 times worse than juices on tooth enamel.
Soda makes us look older
Two or more cans of cola a day can make your skin age faster, say scientists from the University of California (USA). This is due to the shortening of telomeres (the end sections of DNA that protect chromosomes). When telomeres shorten, the ability of cells to regenerate decreases, resulting in a noticeably accelerated aging process.
Soda destroys the liver
Although alcohol is considered the liver's main enemy, carbonated drinks can cause it no less harm – such data were published in The Journal of Hepatology. Fructose from drinks goes straight to the liver, which significantly increases the risk of developing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, which in turn can lead to cirrhosis.
Because of soda, you can't see the “cubes” on your stomach
Carbon dioxide does cause temporary bloating, which can make your stomach look round instead of toned. But the main reason your “cubes” are hidden is because of excess sugar, which is converted into fat and stored in your belly. In addition, for people who are prone to gastrointestinal problems, regular consumption of carbonated drinks can exacerbate symptoms, such as irritable bowel syndrome. Don’t drink soda if you want to look muscular.
Soda is killing your diet
Scientists from Bangor University (UK) have found that people who regularly drink two (or more) cans of sugary soda a day are more likely to crave sweets. That's right. This is because cola dulls the sensation of sweetness – and to feel it, you have to eat more cupcakes.
Soda may increase cancer risk
While the direct link between soda and specific types of cancer is still a matter of debate, numerous studies point to another danger. Excessive sugar consumption leads to obesity, chronic inflammation, and insulin resistance — conditions that are proven risk factors for developing certain types of cancer.
