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
Avery Reno says