A doctor has delivered a blunt warning about a common drink some experts have branded “liquid death,” explaining the potential long-term health consequences.
Although “liquid death” might sound like a joke name for wine after a rough night, the drink being discussed isn’t alcohol at all.
The phrase was used by Dr Jeremy London, a heart surgeon who has described the beverage as “a scourge in our society.”
Despite the dramatic nickname, it’s something many people consume routinely. The National Institutes of Health estimates roughly 50–60 percent of people in the US drink it every day.
According to Dr London, the issue is soft drinks — and he argues there are clear signs when people are having too many.
Data from the Center for Science in the Public Interest suggests the average American gets through close to 1.5 cans of soda per day, adding up to about 53 gallons each year.
In a social media post, Dr. London said: “Just don’t drink them, period, done.”
Other clinicians have also highlighted the possible harm associated with frequent soda consumption. Dr. Donald Grant, GP and senior clinical advisor at The Independent Pharmacy, said: “Sugary drinks can absolutely impact long-term health, and many people fail to recognise this when incorporating them into their diets.
“Drinking too many sugary drinks can contribute to weight gain, tooth decay, type 2 diabetes, heart disease and fatty liver disease.”
He noted that the seriousness of the problem is “often overlooked,” and that the level of long-term risk can vary depending on factors such as “lifestyle, age, overall diet and how often they are consumed.”
Dr Grant also pointed to possible warning signs that your intake may be too high, including tooth sensitivity and difficulty sleeping.
“Additionally, if you experience stomach discomfort or you find it harder to manage blood sugar levels, it may be worth cutting back. Overall, soda should be an occasional treat, rather than your default drink.”
He also advised that not all fizzy drinks are equally problematic, with some carrying higher risks than others.
“Sodas can range in terms of sugar and caffeine content; the drinks with higher contents pose a more significant health risk,” he warned.
“Portions are also important, as bigger cans or bottles can contain enough sugar content to exceed daily limits in a single drink.”