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What does drinking sweetened non-alcoholic beverages cause? Sweetened non-alcoholic drinks are literally a time bomb for our bodies. They contain large amounts of sugar, preservatives and chemicals that negatively affect health.
The World Health Organization (WHO) conducted a meta-analysis, which confirmed that reducing intake of added sugar leads to weight loss, while increased intake causes weight gain.
Nevertheless most people consume these drinks daily. Do you know what health complications they can cause?
1. Increased risk of diabetes
Excessive sugar consumption is associated with the development of type 2 diabetes. Drinking one sweetened beverage a day increases the risk of diabetes by up to 67%.
2. Premature aging
Phosphates and phosphoric acid, which are added to drinks for longer shelf life, accelerate the aging process of cells.
3. Increased risk of blood clots
Drinking sweetened beverages raises triglyceride levels in the blood, which leads to an increased risk of atherosclerosis and blood clots.
4. Damaged teeth
Phosphoric and citric acids contained in the drinks dissolve tooth enamel and cause cavities, sensitivity and yellowing of the teeth.
5. Higher risk of depression
The artificial sweetener aspartame is associated with a 36% increased risk of depression.
6. Risk of cancer
Postmenopausal women who regularly drink sweetened beverages have a 78% higher risk of uterine cancer. In men who consume sweetened drinks daily, the risk of prostate cancer is 40% higher.
7. Obesity and metabolic syndrome
Consuming two sweetened drinks a day leads to a larger waist circumference. Studies have confirmed that long-term consumption increases the risk of obesity and metabolic syndrome.
8. Kidney stones
People who drink at least one soft drink daily have a 33% higher likelihood of developing kidney stones.
How to reduce the risk?
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Stop drinking sweetened non-alcoholic beverages. Replace them with water, unsweetened Ċtea or diluted fruit juices.
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Watch out for artificial sweeteners. They are not a healthier alternative to sugar.
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Check the labels. Many drinks that appear to be “healthy” contain hidden sugar.
Sweetened drinks may be tasty, but their negative impact on health is huge. If you want to stay healthy and fit, limit their consumption to a minimum or eliminate them completely from your diet!
