Research indicates that consuming even a small amount of soda daily can strain the liver and lead to significant health concerns.
Although many are aware that sugary sodas are not beneficial for health, the extent of their impact is often underestimated by the general public.
Globally popular, these drinks’ health risks are frequently overlooked, especially with habitual consumption.
It is well-known that regular intake of sugary sodas is associated with heightened risks of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and dental issues, but their potential harm to liver health is also significant.
Recent findings published in the Annals of Hepatology suggest that even less than one can per day could be associated with serious liver conditions.
The researchers explored the relationship between soft drink intake and liver dysfunction by studying 1,759 healthcare professionals.
By analyzing their eating patterns, they proposed that consumption of non-diet soft drinks is linked to a higher likelihood of metabolic dysfunction.
This is linked to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), previously known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
MASLD generally affects individuals who are overweight or have metabolic conditions such as type 2 diabetes, elevated blood pressure, or high cholesterol, explains Jacqueline Vernarelli, PhD, a nutritional epidemiologist and associate professor at Sacred Heart University.
This condition arises when excess fat accumulates in the liver due to metabolic health issues rather than alcohol consumption, eventually leading to liver inflammation.
Andrew Moore, a gastroenterologist at Endeavor Health MD, has stated that further research is necessary, considering the numerous factors affecting liver health.
These factors include diet, lifestyle, and genetics, which also play a role in liver health.
According to a FoodandWine discussion, Moore stated that individuals who consume more soda have increased rates of liver dysfunction, yet this does not conclusively indicate that soda directly causes liver disease.
He stressed the importance of differentiating correlation from causation, highlighting the need for further data and analysis.
He added: “While it’s not the sole cause, there is strong evidence to support that regular soda consumption is associated with the development of MASLD.”
If you believe that consuming one can of soda a day is harmless, it could be beneficial to reconsider and reduce your intake for a period.