Soda could cause osteoporosis

MAYBE you enjoy a soda with every meal, or you need a bottle of cola first thing in the morning to get you going.

While many people are aware of the potential health hazards of soda due to the high sugar content and links with obesity and diabetes, what many are not aware of is the link between drinking sodas and osteoporosis — weakening of the bones.

According to obstetrician-gynaecologist (OBGYN) Dr Anna-Kay Taylor-Christmas, osteoporosis is a decrease in bone density, which weakens the bone and increases the risk for fracture.

“It is usually associated with ageing and in women, tends to occur more after menopause,” she said.

But Dr Taylor-Christmas said new studies that are being done are finding a link between drinking soda and osteoporosis, mostly in women.

“Early results are suggesting that drinking cola sodas, in particular, seems to be associated with osteoporosis,” she said.

The OBGYN said while the reasons are unclear, the following could be possibilities for the link:

1. Poor dieting

Dr Taylor-Christmas said people who drink a lot of soda tend to have poor diets. “They drink and eat less healthy foods and take in less calcium, which is needed for bone strength,” she said.

2. Caffeine

According to Dr Taylor-Christmas, the caffeine in cola weakens the bones by interfering with calcium absorption.

3. Phosphoric acid

“Phosphoric acid in cola sodas affects how the body processes calcium in the bone,” Dr Taylor-Christmas said.

To help decrease the risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures, Dr Taylor-Christmas suggests the following:

1. Cut soda intake

“Cut down how many colas you are drinking per day. Get that number down to the smallest number you possibly can have per day or week, or switch to a non-cola soda if you must indulge,” she said. Dr Taylor-Christmas added that it is even better to replace soda with a glass of milk, fortified orange juice or water.

2. Consume more milk

“Drink more milk,” Dr Taylor-Christmas said.

3. Take supplements

The OBGYN said women should take a calcium and vitamin D supplement if they aren’t getting enough calcium. “This dosage should be1000-1300 milligrams, depending on your age and your diet,” she said.

Dr Taylor-Christmas added that in addition to forming the habits above, young women must adopt eating and exercise habits that contribute to bone formation.

“One half to one hour of weight-bearing exercise three to six days per week, combined with adequate calcium intake, 1000-1500 milligrams per day, and vitamin D, 400 to 800 international units per day, are the most important building blocks of bone,” she said.

Moreover, she said older women must ensure that they take in sufficient calcium from a balanced diet, and supplements.

“Exercise is important for overall health, and it is important that they reduce the risk of falling during their daily activities,” Dr Taylor-Christmas said.

–KIMBERLEY HIBBERT