Stomach issues and inflammation are common health concerns that can be exacerbated by dietary choices, particularly the beverages we consume on a daily basis. Certain beverages can irritate the stomach lining, disrupt digestion, and trigger or worsen inflammation. These effects may lead to bloating, acid reflux, and even chronic GI discomfort.
We checked in with registered dietitian Lauren Mahersi; Ayman Dandashi, owner of wellness platform Fungus Head; Lisa Richards, nutritionist from The Candida Diet; and Hannah Shine, health manager at HourGlass Waist, to learn about four beverages to stay away from if you want to minimize stomach issues and inflammation. They revealed that alcohol, diet soda, orange soda, and flavored sparkling water are the ones to avoid. Read on to get all their insights.
1. Alcohol
Among its many other well-known risks, alcohol is major culprit in inflammation. According to Mahersi, alcohol can damage your stomach lining and produce free radicals during digestion, which is a recipe for inflammation. "
When we digest alcohol, it releases free radicals that increase inflammation throughout the body," she explains, adding that this inflammatory response can exacerbate gut sensitivity and other health issues.
2. Diet Soda
The excessive sugar in soda can disrupt bacteria, leading to bloating, gas, and digestive discomfort. Additionally, the phosphoric and citric acids in soda can irritate the stomach lining, potentially worsening conditions like acid reflux or gastritis.
Richards says, "Artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame and sucralose, which are commonly used in diet soda, have been the subject of ongoing debate and controversy regarding their potential health effects. Some studies have suggested that artificial sweeteners may be associated with a variety of health problems, including weight gain, type 2 diabetes, and an increased risk of certain types of cancer. However, other research has found no evidence of harm from the use of artificial sweeteners."
She states that "it is not a healthy drink, and it should not be consumed in place of water or other hydrating beverages. It is also important to pay attention to the total amount of soda, including both regular and diet varieties, that you consume, as excessive intake of soda, regardless of whether it is regular or diet, has been linked to a variety of health problems, including weight gain, type 2 diabetes, and tooth decay."
3. Orange Soda
Like other sugary sodas, orange soda's link to bloating and stomach fat is worth considering. The high sugar content in orange soda can lead to increased calorie intake and, when consumed in excess, contribute to weight gain, particularly around the abdominal area. Additionally, the carbonation in sodas can cause the stomach to expand temporarily, leading to feelings of bloating and discomfort.
"Even the name of the drink is misleading because there is little to no trace of orange in this drink. Containing an unrealistic amount of sugars, orange soda is one of the unhealthiest drinks to consume; its content is filled with citric acid and sugar water, which can cause stomach issues if consumed in a high amount. Artificial flavors are added to give off a tangy, orange-like taste while colors are also added to give it an orange-y aesthetic. A can of orange soda contains an astonishing 43 grams of sugar," says Shine.
All the added sugar and artificial ingredients will eventually have negative impacts on your stomach.
4. Flavored Sparkling Water
The carbonation present in sparkling water can potentially lead to bloating as the bubbles may cause temporary stomach distension. While plain sparkling water is usually calorie-free and can be a hydrating choice, flavored varieties may contain artificial sweeteners or natural sugars that contribute to calorie intake. Though the link between flavored sparkling water and stomach fat is less direct compared to sugary sodas, the added ingredients in some flavored options could impact weight management if consumed excessively.
"While it may seem like a healthier alternative, flavored sparkling water can still contribute to bloating. Some brands contain artificial sweeteners, which can cause gastrointestinal distress and bloating in certain individuals," says Dandashi.
