Phosphoric acid and sugar, a double burden to the kidneys
Dark carbonated soft drinks, especially cola, contain phosphoric acid, a component that creates a sour taste and helps with preservation. However, when ingested regularly, this substance can imbalance phosphorus and calcium in the body.
According to Robert Burakoff - professor at Harvard Medical School, who used to hold professional leadership positions at Brigham and Women's Hospital and New York Presbyterian (USA), "high phosphorus levels force the kidneys to work harder to excrete, which can long-term affect kidney function". When phosphorus levels increase, the body must mobilize calcium from bones to balance, increasing the risk of kidney stones and metabolic disorders.
In addition, each can of soft drink can contain up to 30 - 40g of sugar, mainly from fructose-rich corn syrup. Regular consumption easily leads to weight gain, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes, the leading cause of chronic kidney disease.
Caffeine and the silent danger from daily habits
Not only sugar and acid, caffeine in soft drinks is also a factor to note. Although it has a mild diuretic effect, replacing filtered water with soft drinks for a long time can cause mild but prolonged dehydration. This habit can increase the risk of kidney stones, especially when combined with a diet high in sugar and phosphorus.
Excessive caffeine consumption is also associated with high blood pressure, an important risk factor leading to chronic kidney disease. Studies show that people who drink more than one type of sugary drink every day have a significantly higher risk of kidney disease.
Experts recommend that adults should only drink soft drinks at a limited level, instead prioritizing filtered water, sugar-free tea or natural fruit juice to reduce pressure on the kidneys.
