Bad Side Effects of Coke

The first two ingredients listed on a can of Coca-Cola, or Coke, are water and high fructose corn syrup. Add to that some phosphoric acid, caffeine and caramel coloring, and you have a dark mixture of questionable nutritional content that can result in all sorts of negative side effects if consumed in high quantities.

Dental Concerns

Coke contains phosphoric acid, which is known to erode tooth enamel. When that protective layer is compromised, teeth are vulnerable to decay.

Bone Issues

Cola consumption is linked to lower bone density in women, according to a September 2006 issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. The phosphorus in Coke binds with calcium and prevents it from being absorbed by bones.

Weight Gain

One 12 ounce can of Coke contains 39 grams of sugar and 140 calories, so drinking it regularly can contribute to obesity.

Kidney Complications

Drinking two or more colas per day can cause kidney stones to form, which can lead to kidney damage, according to a study whose findings were published in the July 2007 issue of the journal Epidemeology.

Other Effects

High blood pressure can result from the stimulating effects of caffeine. Elevated cholesterol can occur from the high levels of fructose.

References

• 16 Reasons to Stop Its Drinking
• What Happens to Your Body Within an Hour of Drinking Coke
• Study: Cola and Bone Mineral Density in Older Women

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Dark Cola Vs. Water