We’ve all heard that carbonation is bad.  However, no one ever stops to tell us what the negative side affects are. Here are some of the things I’ve heard…

• Carbonation stretches out your stomach.  Over time, your stretched out stomach causes you to eat more and gain weight.
• There is increased sodium in carbonated beverages which causes bloating.
• It can be addictive.
• Carbonation causes calcium loss

     If all of these are true then America is going to be one overweight country with a huge population of people with osteoporosis (if it isn’t already

Here Are The FACTS:

 Bubbles Worsen Bloating, Burping. If you suffer from any condition where bloating occurs, such as irritable bowel disease, indigestion, heartburn or lactose intolerance, carbonated beverages can worsen your symptoms, says Byron Cryer, M.D., gastroenterologist and spokesperson for the American Gastroenterological Association. “The gas has to go somewhere,” explains Cryer, and it can cause discomfort.

Carbonation is most problematic and painful for people with chronic heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD), a condition thought to afflict about 20% of Americans. This condition causes stomach contents to back up into the lower esophagus, resulting in a telltale burning sensation in the chest. Burping can exacerbate the problem by bringing up more acid, which then further irritates the lining of the esophagus, causing potentially serious long-term problems (credit).

 

The Research:

Bones and Teeth Are Safe. Despite warnings you may have seen on the Internet that carbonation can break down calcium in the body, weakening bone and tooth structure, there is no evidence to support these claims, according to Connie Weaver, Ph.D., professor and department head of foods and nutrition at Purdue University, and noted calcium expert (credit)

     Even though they haven’t linked carbonation to any long term health problems; it’s a good idea to limit your intake.  Unless you want to be bloated and gassy all day. 

Adria Ali

     Many people around the gym use “reusable” water bottles, but could your bottle be making you sick?  New research has shown that plastic water bottles leach chemicals into your water.  Read the research below and make the switch!

“Another study linked the chemical bisphenol A, used to make hard, shatter proof plastics, to precancerous tumors, urinary tract problems and early puberty. The study was performed on rats that were fed or injected with small amounts of the chemical, and although the results are preliminary the group of scientists involved in the study said that possible effects on humans “cannot be dismissed.” The National Toxicology Program, who headed the study, is comprised of scientists from many formidable national agencies: the Center for Disease Control, US Food and Drug Administrations, and the US Institutes of Health. Agencies not likely to be ignored considering that this study echoes findings made late last summer by the National Institute of Health.

Bisphenol A is ubiquitous and found in Nalgene bottles, that say polycarbonate (#7 on the bottom)as well as clear plastic baby bottles. It is also used as a liner for cans. Since this questionable chemical can leach into water or food that comes in contact with the hard plastic, many Canadian retailers have pulled products, like Nalgene bottles from their shelves. Once popular only with backpackers, Nalgene bottles have found a niche as reusable water bottle for thirsty folk working at decreasing their carbon and plastic footprint. There are other options like SIGG bottles, made from aluminum; they’re lightweight, durable, and cute (credit).”

 

     It’s time to trade your bottle in for a new one!  Here is what the SIGG water bottles look like….

      If you don’t want to broadcast that you are a “tree hugger” then you can purchase one with out the huge logo on the front.  Other brands can be found at places like REI.  No one needs excess chemicals in their body … we get enough from the smog in our air and the products that we use. 

Adria Ali