A drink that weakens your bones from the inside

 

We love its sparkling, its sweet taste, its comforting side... Soda has a little something addictive. However, behind this popular drink lies a much less trivial impact on our health – and in particular on our bones. Yes, our bones! It's not necessarily the first thing you think of when you open a cold can, but the long-term effects are definitely worth taking a closer look.

An empty drink... that weighs heavy

Soda isn't just water and sugar. It's mostly one high concentration of fast sugars which bring nothing good to the body. As they do not fill you up (unlike a good meal), they encourage you to snack more... Result: we consume more calories without even realizing it. And this “small extra kilo” that we can't explain? It could definitely come from there.

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Your bones also have a say

One of the effects little known soda concerns our skeleton. Some sodas, especially cola ones, contain phosphoric acid. This component, combined with caffeine and a diet low in calcium (since sodas often replace more nutritious drinks), can contribute to a gradual decrease in bone density. Adolescents and women in particular have every interest in paying attention, because bone health is built very early in life.

A sweet risk for your balance

But the damage doesn't stop there. The sugar in soda causes blood sugar spikes that tire the pancreas. Result: over time, the risk of developing type 2 diabetes increases. And just one can daily can be enough to increase the risks. That's a lot for a drink with no nutritional benefit.

And your liver in all this?

The sugar used in soda is often fructose, a type of sugar that passes through the liver before being stored. In excess, it can lead to an accumulation of fat in this essential organ. We then talk about “non-alcoholic foie gras” (or fatty liver), a condition increasingly common in adults... and even adolescents.

Teeth not delighted at all

Between the acids that attack enamel and the sugars that feed bacteria, your teeth aren't really fans of soda. If you've ever experienced tooth sensitivity or cavities despite regular brushing, the sparkling drink could be to blame. And even the versions “without sugar” do not escape this problem because of their acidity.

A heart that also toasts

The effects don't stop at the mouth or liver. Soda can also have an impact on the cardiovascular system. It promotes an increase in blood pressure, increases bad cholesterol levels, and increases the risk of heart attacks. In short, behind its apparent innocence, the can contains a mixture far from harmless for our overall health.

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Smarter (and just as pleasant) alternatives

Fortunately, there are solutions to keep the fun without the risks. Think about:

• Sparkling waters rich in minerals, particularly calcium
• Homemade frozen infusions without added sugar
• Milk or vegetable drinks enriched with calcium
• Naturally flavored waters with lemon, cucumber or mint

These options are not only refreshing, but they also take care of your bones, teeth, and overall balance.

What if the real drink “feel good” was the one that makes you feel good from the inside?