Most people probably don’t realize the amount of
soda they consume in their lifetime, but with carbonated soft drinks accounting for the number one beverage of choice by Americans, it’s a lot more than you’d think. While a can or two every now and then isn’t necessarily harmful to your health, relying solely on soda for your daily liquid intake can be toxic. The next time you reach for your favorite carbonated beverage, think about the possible ramifications of your drink choice.Most soft drinks contain a slew of potentially health hazardous ingredients that have proven difficult for the body to process. For someone with liver disease, these kinds of ingredients are public enemy #1; they include high fructose corn syrup, aspartame, caffeine and phosphoric acid. High fructose corn syrup is generally an unhealthy substance, regardless of any pre-existing health condition, and should be avoided or limited whenever possible. Aside from being difficult for the liver to process, when consumed on a consistent basis, high fructose corn syrup can lead to weight gain. Anyone with liver disease knows that a weight increase puts added stress on the liver and can interfere with everyday liver function.
With artificial sweeteners representing a large portion of soft drinks, the liver is working overtime to process these substances and remove them from the body. Caffeine is notably addictive, and has its own possible health consequences that are further exacerbated when liver disease is present.
As the current trend of soft drink consumption is growing at a rapid pace, even a slight decrease in the amount of soda you regularly drink can have a positive effect on your health. Of course, complete elimination of soda from your diet is the best choice for a healthy lifestyle. Especially if you have liver disease, put down that can of soda and reach for a healthier alternative beverage, one without all the unfriendly ingredients that can harm your health.
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