For many people, soda is a staple drink. They cannot imagine a day without soda. As per a study, more than half of the American population drinks soda daily, and the global average intake of soda is estimated to be around 37 liters per year per person.

However, little do people know that regular consumption of soda can be harmful to their health and can even shorten their lifespan. This article delves into how sodas can shorten your lifespan and the reasons behind it.

Soda and Obesity

Soda is famous for being high in calories and added sugar. In fact, a single can of soda contains about ten teaspoons of sugar, exceeding the recommended daily sugar intake by WHO (World Health Organization).

Regular consumption of soda can lead to high caloric intake, leading to obesity. Obesity, in turn, is linked to various diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and certain types of cancer. Obesity can reduce your lifespan while increasing your risk of developing these diseases.

Soda and Type 2 Diabetes

Sugary drinks like soda can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. A study published in the journal Diabetologia reported that drinking one or two servings of sugary beverages daily increases the risk of type 2 diabetes by 26%.

The high sugar content in soda causes a spike in blood sugar and insulin levels. Over time, this can lead to insulin resistance, which can eventually cause diabetes.

Soda and Cardiovascular Disease

Soda intake is linked to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. The high sugar content in soda raises the levels of triglycerides, a type of fat present in the blood that can contribute to heart disease.

Furthermore, consumption of sugary drinks can increase blood pressure, another risk factor for heart disease. According to a study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, individuals who drank more than two sugary beverages a day had a 31% higher risk of dying from heart disease than those who drank less than one sugary beverage a month.

Soda and Dental Health

Soda contains acids that can erode tooth enamel, leading to dental cavities. The high sugar content in soda can also feed cavity-causing bacteria, which can worsen the damage.

Poor dental health can lead to tooth loss, causing discomfort and altering your diet, leading to other health issues.

Soda and Kidney Health

Consuming soda can damage your kidneys. The phosphoric acid present in soda can contribute to kidney stones, and the high sugar content in soda can lead to kidney damage and increase the risk of developing kidney disease.

Soda and Mental Health

Consumption of soda can have a negative impact on your mental health. A study published in the journal Public Health Nutrition reported that daily consumption of sugary drinks increased the risk of depression.

The high sugar content in soda can cause mood swings, irritability, and lethargy. Besides, regular consumption of soda can lead to increased anxiety and stress levels.

Soda and Bone Health

Soda can also increase the risk of osteoporosis. The consumption of soda can cause the loss of calcium in bones, leading to thinning and weakening of bones. This can raise the risk of fractures, especially in people who exhibit low calcium levels.

Soda and Cancer

Consumption of sugary drinks is linked to an increased risk of some cancers. A study published in the British Journal of Cancer reported that consuming sugary drinks can increase the risk of endometrial cancer by 78%.

Furthermore, the high sugar content in soda can cause inflammation, which can increase your risk of developing cancer.

Soda Alternatives

If you consume soda regularly, it’s high time you switch to healthier alternatives. Here are some soda substitutes you can try:.

Water
Sparkling water with a slice of fresh lime or lemon
Cold-pressed juice
Tea or coffee without added sugar
Low-fat milk
Coconut water

Conclusion

Sodas can be harmful to your health and can shorten your lifespan. The high sugar content and calories in soda can lead to obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and other serious health issues.

Try to reduce your soda intake and switch to healthier alternatives to maintain good health.