Drinking soda regularly may not be the best choice for overall health. Soft drinks have led to weight gain from excess sugar, negatively affect our liver, and increase the risks of certain cancers. According to CDC, excessive sugar intake leads to weight gain, obesity, type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
Effects of drinking soda –
A more dangerous amount of fat can be gained around the stomach – Soda increases weight gain and body fat, especially around the stomach area. Two types of fats are there in the stomach including, visceral fat and subcutaneous fat. Subcutaneous fat is found under the skin and serves as an important source for protecting our bones and muscles, storing energy, and regulating temperature. Visceral fat is found in the abdominal area and is more dangerous to health than subcutaneous fat. Too much of this fat can lead to deadly diseases, insulin resistance, and increase blood pressure.
Increase the risk of dementia or stroke – Drinking soda also increases the risk of dementia or stroke. Regularly consuming artificially-sweetened drinks leads to a higher risk of multiple types of dementia and stroke.
One may feel more hungry – Drinking soda may satisfy sugar cravings but may not satisfy hunger pangs. Studies show that soda increases our levels of hunger after drinking them. According to the American Journal of Public Health, there are few reasons for this. Soda contains zero vitamins and nutrients, especially protein, so people often feel hungry and unsatisfied afterwards. It contains high amounts of fructose, and the hunger hormones are not lower than glucose does.
One might become addicted – A recent study published in Appetite in 2019 found that sodas were, in fact, addictive, especially in adolescent populations. They found that people who drank soda regularly had withdrawal symptoms if they didn’t take soda for three days. Their symptoms included frequent headaches, lower ability to focus, and decreased motivation.
Increase the risk of gout – Gout is a form of arthritis caused by a high uric acid level. This problem is increasing in the US. Women who drink regular soda have a higher chance of developing gout than women who don’t drink soda. Soda contains high levels of fructose which increases levels of uric acid.