Health risks of carbonated drinks: Youth addiction and healthy alternatives

Written By: Zahra Rashidi

Carbonated beverages are among the most widely consumed drinks globally. However, the recent rise in the use of non-alcoholic energy drinks has led to addiction among young people. Doctors advise that it is important to understand their harmful effects before consuming carbonated drinks.

Research by doctors has shown that excessive consumption of carbonated beverages increases the risk of developing diabetes, dehydration, weight gain, memory loss, skin health issues, heart failure, and adverse effects on bone health.

Furthermore, studies indicate that a single soda can contains about 10 teaspoons of sugar. The World Health Organization recommends consuming no more than six teaspoons of sugar per day, while a single soda can nearly doubles that amount, making even one soda per day potentially harmful.

Researchers believe that individuals who consume one or two cans of sugary drinks daily have a 26% higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. According to research and reports, 184,000 global deaths each year are attributed to the consumption of sugary drinks.

As soon as soda enters the body, it poses a threat, stimulating various body parts. The phosphoric acid in these drinks, which contributes to their sweetness, reduces water intake and causes dehydration—one of the lesser-known side effects of drinking soda.

Dunya, a 19-year-old from Kabul, shared with Khaama Press that her long-standing interest in carbonated drinks has led to an addiction. She said, “I felt weak and went to see a doctor. After some tests, the doctor told me that my bone density is equivalent to that of a 60-year-old woman, meaning my bones are only 84% healthy.”

Dunya explained, “A healthy bone density is above 100, but mine is only 84, due to excessive consumption of carbonated drinks and lack of calcium.”

She mentioned that she has now stopped consuming energy drinks but is currently in the early stages of osteoporosis.

Meanwhile, Dr. Fareedullah Omari, a specialist in infectious diseases, told Khaama Press, “In general, from a medical standpoint, most carbonated and non-carbonated drinks are harmful to health. Regular consumption of these beverages can lead to various diseases, particularly kidney problems, the erosion of tooth enamel, osteoporosis, and many other health issues.”

Dr. Omari added, “Research on alternatives to carbonated drinks suggests that water, especially when not too cold during hot seasons, and other liquids like tea can replace carbonated beverages.”

Nowadays, carbonated drinks like soda have become widespread. Not only are they highly consumed by young people, but middle-aged and even elderly individuals also include them prominently in their diets. However, this high level of consumption should not distract us from the numerous harms of these drinks. While a complete ban on such drinks may be impractical, we should seek the best alternatives and consider what to drink instead of soda.

Studies show that artificial sweeteners in commercial drinks and sodas contain high calories, contributing to weight gain. Additionally, they are rich in sugars, leading to type 2 diabetes. Therefore, reducing or eliminating sugary drinks from your diet is crucial.

Replacing soda with healthy, nutritious drinks like yogurt, kefir, homemade lemonade, naturally flavored water, sparkling water, plain water, and fresh vegetable juices can be beneficial for healthy weight loss and overall well-being.

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