Studies show that people who drink sugary drinks every day are more likely to gain weight and become obese than those who avoid these drinks.
Effects on bone health
A common concern related to soft drinks is the risk of bone loss. Although phosphoric acid is thought to impair calcium metabolism, a direct link has not been proven.
The real problem is substitution: people often drink carbonated drinks instead of calcium-rich beverages (such as milk), which reduces calcium absorption.
An adequate calcium intake can counteract the negative effects of caffeine and keep bones healthy in the long term.
Carbonated waters without sugar, phosphoric acid, or caffeine (e.g., carbonated mineral water) are not considered harmful to bone health.
Blood sugar and diabetes risk
Sugary drinks cause a rapid rise in blood sugar levels and, over time, increase insulin resistance. Just one can of soda a day is associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. According to one study, 150 additional sugary calories a day increased the risk of diabetes by 1.1%.
