*Health experts warn sugary drinks like soda could be silently shaving minutes off your life.
According to Eating Well, one study suggests that drinking just one sugar-sweetened soda a day could cut 12 disease-free minutes from your life expectancy. With soft drinks ranking as the leading source of added sugar in the U.S. diet, dietitians say that cutting back, or cutting them out entirely, could make a major difference to your health.
“Eating too many added sugars can contribute to health issues like unwanted weight gain, heart disease and type 2 diabetes,” explains registered dietitian Jamie Nadeau, RD, LDN. One can of soda packs around 10 teaspoons of added sugar, nearly an entire day’s worth based on dietary guidelines.
But it’s not just about what soda adds, it’s also what it lacks. “Sodas have little nutritional value,” says Laura M. Ali, M.S., RDN, LDN.
Beyond contributing to weight gain and chronic disease risk, sugary sodas can also negatively affect gut health. Some studies have found links between high sugar intake and harmful changes in gut bacteria, potentially leading to inflammation and disease. On top of that, soda’s acidity and sugar content can damage teeth, worsening oral health and increasing the risk of other chronic conditions like heart disease.
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Healthier swaps can help curb the habit. Unsweetened seltzer, infused water, herbal teas, and black coffee offer satisfying alternatives without the sugar crash or health risks.
“You can find unsweetened seltzer in a huge variety of flavors,” says Nadeau. Registered dietitian Beth Stark also recommends infused water with fruit and herbs for a refreshing, sugar-free option.
By making the simple switch from soda to smarter beverages, experts say you’re not just cutting calories, you’re investing in a longer, healthier life.
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