Why does soda give me diarrhea. How do carbonated beverages affect the digestive system. What ingredients in soft drinks can lead to loose stools. How to prevent soda-induced diarrhea. When to seek medical advice for persistent digestive problems.

The Science Behind Soda-Induced Diarrhea

Many people experience digestive discomfort after consuming carbonated beverages, with diarrhea being a common complaint. To understand why soda can cause diarrhea, it’s essential to examine the components of these popular drinks and their effects on the gastrointestinal system.

Sugar Content in Sodas

One of the primary culprits behind soda-induced diarrhea is the high sugar content. Sodas typically contain large amounts of sugar, often in the form of high-fructose corn syrup or sucrose. These sugars can have a laxative effect on the digestive system, leading to loose stools.

How does sugar contribute to diarrhea? When consumed in large quantities, sugar draws water into the intestines through a process called osmosis. This excess water in the intestines can result in looser, more frequent bowel movements.

Carbonation and Gut Irritation

The carbonation in sodas can also play a role in causing diarrhea. Carbonated beverages introduce gas into the digestive system, which can lead to bloating, discomfort, and altered bowel movements. For some individuals, this excess gas can stimulate the intestines, causing them to contract more frequently and potentially resulting in diarrhea.

Artificial Sweeteners: A Hidden Culprit

Many people opt for diet sodas to avoid excess sugar, but these alternatives can also cause digestive issues. Artificial sweeteners, such as sorbitol, mannitol, and xylitol, are commonly used in diet sodas and can have a laxative effect on the body.

Why do artificial sweeteners cause diarrhea? These sugar substitutes are not fully absorbed by the body and can draw water into the intestines, similar to regular sugar. Additionally, some artificial sweeteners can ferment in the gut, leading to gas, bloating, and diarrhea in sensitive individuals.

Caffeine’s Impact on Digestion

Many sodas contain caffeine, which is known to stimulate the digestive system. Caffeine can increase intestinal motility, leading to more frequent bowel movements. For some people, this stimulant effect can result in diarrhea, especially when consumed in large quantities or on an empty stomach.

Individual Sensitivities and Digestive Health

It’s important to note that not everyone will experience diarrhea after drinking soda. The likelihood of experiencing digestive issues from carbonated beverages can depend on various factors, including:

• Individual tolerance to sugar and artificial sweeteners
• Existing digestive conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Overall gut health and microbiome balance
• Frequency and quantity of soda consumption

How can you determine if soda is causing your diarrhea? Keeping a food diary and tracking your symptoms can help identify patterns and potential triggers. If you suspect soda is causing digestive issues, try eliminating it from your diet for a few weeks and observe any changes in your symptoms.

The Role of FODMAPs in Soda-Induced Diarrhea

FODMAPs (Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides, and Polyols) are a group of carbohydrates that can be difficult for some people to digest. Many sodas contain high levels of FODMAPs, particularly in the form of fructose and artificial sweeteners.

How do FODMAPs contribute to diarrhea? When FODMAPs are not properly absorbed in the small intestine, they pass into the large intestine where they are fermented by gut bacteria. This fermentation process can lead to gas, bloating, and diarrhea in sensitive individuals.

Identifying FODMAP Sensitivity

If you suspect you may be sensitive to FODMAPs, consider working with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to implement a low-FODMAP diet. This approach can help identify specific triggers and manage symptoms effectively.

Preventing Soda-Induced Diarrhea

If you enjoy carbonated beverages but want to avoid digestive issues, there are several strategies you can employ:

1. Limit your intake: Reduce the quantity and frequency of soda consumption
2. Choose alternatives: Opt for carbonated water with natural flavors instead of sugary or artificially sweetened sodas
3. Stay hydrated: Balance soda intake with plenty of water to help dilute the sugar and caffeine
4. Consume with food: Drinking soda with meals can help slow down the absorption of sugar and caffeine
5. Gradually reduce: If you’re a heavy soda drinker, slowly decrease your intake to allow your body to adjust

When to Seek Medical Advice

While occasional diarrhea after consuming soda is usually not a cause for concern, persistent or severe symptoms may indicate an underlying issue. When should you consult a healthcare professional about soda-induced diarrhea?

• If symptoms persist even after eliminating soda from your diet
• If you experience severe abdominal pain, fever, or blood in your stool
• If diarrhea leads to dehydration or significant weight loss
• If you have a pre-existing digestive condition that seems to be worsening

A healthcare provider can help determine if there are any underlying conditions contributing to your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Alternatives to Soda for Better Digestive Health

If you’re looking to reduce your soda intake while still enjoying flavorful beverages, consider these healthier alternatives:

• Infused water: Add slices of fruit, herbs, or cucumber to water for natural flavor
• Herbal teas: Enjoy a variety of caffeine-free options, served hot or iced
• Kombucha: A fermented tea that can provide probiotics for gut health (consume in moderation)
• Coconut water: A natural source of electrolytes without added sugars
• Sparkling water with a splash of 100% fruit juice: For a lower-sugar carbonated option

How can these alternatives benefit your digestive health? By choosing beverages with less sugar, no artificial sweeteners, and potential probiotic benefits, you may experience improved digestion and reduced instances of diarrhea.

Understanding the Long-Term Effects of Excessive Soda Consumption

While occasional soda consumption is unlikely to cause significant harm, regular and excessive intake can lead to various health issues beyond just digestive problems. What are the potential long-term consequences of high soda consumption?

• Increased risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes due to high sugar content
• Dental erosion and cavities from the acidic nature of sodas
• Potential increased risk of certain cancers, particularly in the digestive tract
• Negative impacts on bone health due to phosphoric acid content in some sodas
• Increased risk of heart disease and metabolic syndrome

How can you protect your health while still enjoying occasional sodas? Moderation is key. Limit soda intake to special occasions, and focus on a balanced diet rich in whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and plenty of water.

The Importance of Gut Health

Maintaining a healthy gut microbiome is crucial for overall digestive health and can help mitigate the negative effects of occasional soda consumption. How can you promote a healthy gut environment?

• Consume a diverse range of fiber-rich foods
• Include fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut in your diet
• Consider probiotic supplements under the guidance of a healthcare professional
• Stay hydrated with water and herbal teas
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques and regular exercise

By prioritizing gut health, you may find that your digestive system becomes more resilient to occasional indulgences, including sodas.

Navigating Social Situations and Soda Consumption

For many people, social gatherings and celebrations often involve the consumption of sodas and other sweetened beverages. How can you manage these situations if you’re prone to soda-induced diarrhea?

1. Bring your own beverages: Offer to bring a healthier alternative to share
2. Choose wisely: Opt for sparkling water or club soda with a splash of juice if available
3. Practice moderation: If you do choose to have a soda, limit yourself to a small serving
4. Eat before drinking: Consuming food alongside soda can help slow down sugar absorption
5. Be open about your choices: Don’t be afraid to explain your dietary preferences to friends and family

Remember, taking care of your health doesn’t mean you have to miss out on social experiences. With a little preparation and mindfulness, you can enjoy gatherings without compromising your digestive well-being.

The Role of Stress in Digestive Health

It’s worth noting that stress can exacerbate digestive issues, including soda-induced diarrhea. How does stress impact digestion? Stress can alter gut motility, increase inflammation, and disrupt the balance of gut bacteria, all of which can contribute to digestive symptoms.

If you find that your digestive issues worsen during periods of stress, consider incorporating stress-management techniques into your daily routine. These may include:

• Regular exercise
• Meditation or mindfulness practices
• Deep breathing exercises
• Adequate sleep
• Engaging in hobbies or activities you enjoy

By managing stress effectively, you may find that your digestive system becomes more resilient, even when faced with occasional dietary indulgences like soda.

Educating Others About Soda and Digestive Health

As you become more aware of the connection between soda consumption and digestive health, you may want to share this knowledge with friends and family. How can you approach this topic sensitively and effectively?

• Lead by example: Choose healthier beverages and explain your choices if asked
• Share information from reputable sources: Provide scientific evidence about the effects of excessive soda consumption
• Offer alternatives: Introduce others to tasty, healthier beverage options
• Be supportive, not judgmental: Recognize that everyone has different dietary needs and preferences
• Encourage moderation: Emphasize that occasional soda consumption can be part of a balanced diet for many people

By sharing your knowledge and experiences, you can help others make informed decisions about their beverage choices and potentially improve their digestive health.

The Future of Carbonated Beverages

As awareness grows about the potential negative health impacts of traditional sodas, the beverage industry is evolving. What trends are emerging in the world of carbonated drinks?

• Low-sugar and zero-sugar options using natural sweeteners
• Functional sodas with added vitamins, minerals, or probiotics
• Craft sodas made with natural ingredients and less sugar
• Plant-based carbonated drinks with potential health benefits
• Personalized beverages tailored to individual nutritional needs and preferences

As these trends continue to develop, consumers may have more options for enjoying carbonated beverages without the same risk of digestive issues. However, it’s always important to approach new products with a critical eye and consider their potential impact on your individual health.

In conclusion, understanding the link between soda consumption and digestive health empowers you to make informed choices about your beverage intake. By being mindful of your body’s reactions, choosing alternatives when necessary, and maintaining overall gut health, you can enjoy a balanced approach to hydration and nutrition. Remember, everyone’s digestive system is unique, so what works for one person may not work for another. Listen to your body, stay informed, and don’t hesitate to seek professional advice if you have persistent concerns about your digestive health.

Is something in your diet causing diarrhea?

As we age, our digestive systems can become more sensitive to certain types of foods and methods of food preparation. While you once may have handled the spiciest of foods without breaking a sweat, now that super-hot chicken curry gives you the digestive drama known as diarrhea—uncomfortable, unformed, watery stool.

Sometimes diarrhea occurs because of an underlying condition, or as a side effect of a medication (see “Other causes of diarrhea”). However, diet is often the cause.

Diarrhea triggers

The following can cause loose stools or make them worse.

Sugar. Sugars stimulate the gut to put out water and electrolytes, which loosen bowel movements. If you ingest a lot of sugar, you may develop diarrhea. One of the biggest offenders is fructose, which is found naturally in fruits (such as peaches, pears, cherries, and apples) or added to foods and drinks, such as applesauce, soda, and juice beverages. Many people who ingest more than 40 to 80 grams of fructose per day will get diarrhea. Another offender: artificial sweeteners such as sorbitol, mannitol, and xylitol (found in sugar-free gum, candy, and medications).

Dairy foods. These contain lactose, which some people have a hard time digesting. Watch out for cheese, milk, and ice cream, among many other products.

FODMAPs. Fructose, artificial sweeteners, and lactose are part a group of poorly digested sugars that can cause diarrhea, known as FODMAPs (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols). Other sources of FODMAPs include wheat, rye, onions, garlic, legumes (chickpeas, lentils, beans), honey, pistachios, cashews, asparagus, and artichokes.

Gluten. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, rye, beer, and even salad dressings. People who are gluten-sensitive may have a hard time digesting gluten and get diarrhea as a result. In people with celiac disease, ingesting gluten provokes the body to attack the lining of the small intestine, which can cause serious damage.

Fried or fatty foods. Some people have a hard time digesting creamy or fried foods. When fatty foods are not absorbed normally, they go to the colon, where they are broken down to fatty acids, causing the colon to secrete fluid and trigger diarrhea.

Spicy foods. Spicy sauces may mask high fat content, especially in Tex-Mex dishes or curries. And there’s this unpleasant side effect: If you eat a lot of hot spicy foods, you may get burning in the rectum.

Caffeine. Caffeine speeds up the digestive system. It’s found in coffee, tea, chocolate, many sodas, and foods flavored with coffee or chocolate.

The fix

Identify the foods and drinks that seem to trigger your diarrhea. Keeping a food journal is a great start, and so is seeing your doctor to make sure something else isn’t responsible for your symptoms.

If food is the culprit, following a FODMAP-free diet will often get rid of diarrhea in a week or two. Be-cause many FODMAP foods such as fruits and vegetables are good for health, it’s best to work with a dietitian to develop a FODMAP-free menu that includes other healthy foods.

Get help

Chronic diarrhea can interfere with your life, at home and at work. Even if it is not severe, its unpredictability and urgency can make you reluctant to socialize. And some people hesitate to bring the problem to a doctor’s attention because they think it’s not serious, or because it’s embarrassing. But anyone with chronic diarrhea should contact a doctor, particularly if there are other warning signs, such as low appetite or weight loss. The causes and cures for chronic diarrhea are complex. So, if changing your diet hasn’t resolved the problem, don’t try to figure it out on your own.

Image: 5432action/Getty Images

Why Does Pepsi Give Me Diarrhea?

Pepsi is a very popular soda and is sold virtually everywhere.

Consuming certain foods and drinks can trigger diarrhea in some people, whereas particular foods and beverages consumed in moderate to high amounts will reliably give a person diarrhea.

Today, I will provide a full rundown of why Pepsi causes diarrhea and how to avoid it.

Pepsi causes diarrhea because it has a moderate amount of sugar and caffeine.

More than two 12 oz (360 mL) cans a day of Pepsi will provide an amount of sugar and caffeine to give a person diarrhea.

But, if you consume less than this, it’s because of the reasons below.

If you consume less than 2 cans of Pepsi per day but still get diarrhea, it’s either because you are intolerant or consume too much sugar and caffeine from other foods and drinks.

Below, I will provide a breakdown of how much sugar and caffeine are in Pepsi and why it’s enough to give a person diarrhea.

As well as whether beverages like Pepsi can cause an upset stomach or trigger IBS.

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Reasons Why Pepsi Causes Diarrhea?

There are a few reasons why Pepsi can trigger diarrhea, either sometimes or every time you drink it. Here’s a full rundown of why Pepsi causes diarrhea and how to avoid it.

In general, either you have an intolerance to sodas such as Pepsi, you consume more than two 12 oz (360 mL) cans of Pepsi per day, or your diet is otherwise high in caffeine and sugar, which puts you over the limit of caffeine and sugar per day that will induce diarrhea.

Medical professionals at Harvard Medical School state that a few chemicals in foods and drinks have been found to cause diarrhea.

One of which is sugar but more specifically fructose.

The other is caffeine.

The upper limit of how much of these a person can consume before getting diarrhea is:

• 40 g of fructose
• 200 mg of caffeine

A regular can of Pepsi is 12 oz (360 mL), equivalent to roughly 1.3 cups.

The amount of fructose and caffeine in a regular-sized can of Pepsi is:

• 5g of fructose
• 9 mg of caffeine

As you can see, the amount of caffeine is not enough to cause diarrhea unless you consume about 6 cans of Pepsi, which for most people is impossible.

But, 2 regular-sized cans or 3 cups of Pepsi is enough fructose to cause diarrhea.

Interestingly, there are a few different types of diarrhea, and various factors can cause them. Here’s a video where they explain this in detail:

Pepsi is sweetened with sugar which is about 50% fructose

If you look at the product label on a can of Pepsi, you will notice that it is sweetened with sugar, not fructose.

But fructose is the chemical that causes diarrhea in excess amounts.

Regular sugar is, on average, somewhere between 50% and 60% fructose.

The amount of sugar in a regular-sized can of Pepsi is 38. 9 grams. So, about half of that is fructose.

Therefore, a regular-sized can of Pepsi contains about 20g of fructose.

Which is 50% towards the amount of fructose that will give you diarrhea.

Diet sodas such as diet Pepsi contain artificial sweeteners instead of sugar and do not contain any ingredients that are known to cause diarrhea.

But, they likely cause diarrhea in a small percentage of people that consume them.

Similar to how a small percentage of people react badly to certain foods.

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Can Pepsi Cause Stomach Problems?

Pepsi is one of the most popular carbonated beverages and one of the most popular colas.

Many people report that sodas are good when you have an upset stomach, but some people have a bad reaction when they drink Pepsi.

So, below is if Pepsi can cause stomach problems.

As a general rule, Pepsi can cause stomach problems.

But, typically, it won’t unless you consume more than 24 oz (700 mL) daily. Or about 2.6 cups.

Otherwise, if you consume less than that, you are intolerant towards Pepsi, or your diet is too high in sugar or caffeine.

The International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders has stated that:

“Caffeine-containing drinks have a laxative potential. More than two or three cups of coffee or tea daily can often cause diarrhea”.

However, Pepsi contains about one ⅓ the caffeine that coffee has. For example, 12 oz of coffee contains 136 mg of coffee, whereas 12 oz of Pepsi contains 38.9mg of caffeine. Diarrhea and stomach problems tend to go hand in hand.

Therefore, based on the recommendation of the International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders, the laxative effects and stomach problems caused by Pepsi would only occur if you drink about 6 to 9 cups of Pepsi. Or 48 oz to 72 oz.

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Can Soft Drinks Cause Diarrhea?

Soft drinks are one of the most refreshing glasses because they are carbonated, have a high water content, and taste good.

Diarrhea is common, but it’s often difficult to know what caused it.

So, this is if soft drinks can cause diarrhea.

Overall, soft drinks can cause diarrhea.

But only if you consume more than two 12 oz cans (360 mL) daily.

Doing so will provide enough sugar to trigger diarrhea.

The other ingredient that causes diarrhea is caffeine.

But, the levels are so low it can’t trigger diarrhea.

Sodas contain an average amount of caffeine.

But, you would need to drink six 12 oz cans daily for the caffeine content to cause diarrhea.

Therefore, the main thing to watch out for is consuming too much sugar daily.

Chris Watson

I’m the owner and blogger here at SodaPopCraft.Com. I’m a soft drinks enthusiast, bringing you all I know and research from the world of Beverages, Soda Pop, Soft Drinks, and many more.

I hope it inspires you to make Healthier, and Creative Drinks at Home.

Read more About Me here  &  Tweet Me Here.

little-known side effects, myths and truths about soda

No one will argue with the fact that sugary carbonated drinks with chemical flavors are an absolute evil. And what about plain sparkling water, is it sinless? Let’s figure it out!

Photo by Giorgio Trovato on Unsplash

What is sparkling water

Sometimes a banana is just a banana, so sparkling water is just sparkling water. Chemically, it’s h3O mixed with CO2, carbon dioxide, similar to what we exhale.

How did he get there? Cold gas dissolved in water under high pressure conditions. This can happen in nature – natural soda is extracted from some underground wells and springs. The product contains many useful substances – with this composition, tickling bubbles become just another nice bonus.

CO2 can also be “pumped” into the water in production, and this happens both with mineral natural and with ordinary water, similar to purified tap water. Add syrup, dye, preservatives, fragrances to it – and you will get a tasty, high-calorie drink that literally instantly provides you with an increase.

Why everyone loves sparkling water

There was some marketing involved. While not all sparkling water on the market is mineral-rich, there is a certain stereotype that sparkling water is healthy (although you should always look at the composition). On the other hand, often people who decide to take the path of getting rid of excess calories are more willing to drink carbonated plain water – they have abandoned chemical lemonades, but the hiss and bubbles make it easier for them to part with harmful drinks.

ADVERTISING – CONTINUED BELOW

Harm and benefits of sparkling water

Water with bubbles, like any product, has its own characteristics.

Soda helps increase hydration

If you need to drink more and you can’t drink plain water, drink sparkling water. After all, it’s just pure water with carbon dioxide. Nutritionists and other nutritionists are gradually abandoning frightening norms such as “three liters of water daily for everyone and everyone” – you should drink when you thirsty, but enough, and do not replace water with tea, coffee and juices.

Soda is “tastier”

Related to the previous fact, fizz and bubbles really make soda more “appetizing”. And this is really important if you have embarked on the path of improving your menu. You don’t need to top up the syrup, but you can always put lemon, berries or fruit slices in your serving of mineral water.

Bubbles can swell the stomach

And this is also true and pure physics. Drinking carbonated water, we swallow a little more air than usual. Together with carbon dioxide, this can cause discomfort – especially if you suffer from irritable bowel syndrome. For the same reason, soda can cause constipation or, conversely, diarrhea.

Soda can make you feel better

In 2017, the American Journal of Obesity Research and Clinical Practice published a study confirming that this most palatable fizz of sparkling water causes some people to release the “hunger hormone” ghrelin.

Soda can help you lose weight

Soda can make you feel full without the calories. All fans of water with gas talk about this – it fills the stomach much more pronounced than “empty” water. There isn’t much research on soda, but common sense suggests that using a clear liquid with bubbles as a replacement for sugary sodas naturally helps reduce calorie intake.

Carbonated water is good for the brain

A 2022 study found that cold, unsweetened carbonated water increased cerebral blood flow. Subjects placed in a stressful situation, after taking a sip of sparkling water with ice, remained collected, attentive and more alert and motivated than their counterparts in the study, who were fed warm water and water without gas.

Soda can ruin teeth – and sugar has nothing to do with it

Water with bubbles may have a lower acidity than plain water, which will affect the enamel in the long run. Dentin, the area under the tooth enamel that protects the nerve, also reacts to carbon dioxide.

Is drinking soda good or bad? Say it unambiguously

No, we won’t! Water with gas allows you to avoid dehydration, overeating (unless, of course, you are one of those who start to produce ghrelin from the hissing of bubbles) – in a word, it can do good service to health. But there are also downsides to using it. So think it over and decide.

Carbonated and energy drinks (benefit? harm?)

Let’s think:

Natural carbonated water has been known since ancient times and has been used for medicinal purposes. Even Hippocrates in his work ordered the sick to drink it and bathe in it. In the 18th century, mineral water began to be bottled, transported and sold. However, it was very expensive and also ran out of steam quickly. Therefore, later attempts were made to artificially carbonate water. For the first time created sparkling water chemist J. Priestley in 1767. Industrial production was started by Jacob Schwell. He created an industrial plant that produces sparkling water. From 19century, he began to use ordinary baking soda and carbonated water for carbonation, which made production cheaper.

But even ordinary carbon dioxide, which is absolutely safe for humans, in combination with water is harmful to health. The fact is that the reaction of gas with water results in carbonic acid, and it, in turn, becomes a dangerous solution for the stomach and gastrointestinal tract, causes irritation and provokes inflammation. It is good that this acid quickly breaks down into components, but they accumulate in the intestines for a long time. When gas enters the intestines, this can lead to stagnation, impaired absorption and digestion of food, and pain attacks may occur. To avoid side effects, it is better to shake the soda and excess bubbles will disappear. Carbonated drinks should be completely eliminated from the diet of young children. Carbon dioxide is a preservative and is labeled as E29 on packaging.0. And if it is useful to drink mineral water, as it saturates the body with electrolytes, then the use of sweet carbonated drinks can lead to negative consequences. Sodium benzoate, which is found in carbonated drinks, is used as a preservative in foods. Sodium-based preservatives added to soda water reduce the amount of potassium in the body. Some people develop a reaction to sodium and may experience allergic reactions. The sugar and acid found in sugary sodas erode tooth enamel. When caries gets to the nerves, roots and to the base of the tooth, the tooth is destroyed. Most sugary sodas contain large amounts of high fructose corn syrup, a sweetener. This syrup has been linked to an increased risk of metabolic syndrome, which in turn increases the risk of getting type 2 diabetes or heart problems. Cola and sugary sodas contain high amounts of phosphoric acid, which leads to the formation of kidney stones, as well as bone problems: they become more fragile, osteoporosis can develop. Excreted from the body with urine, phosphoric acid takes with it calcium and other minerals necessary for the full functioning of the body. Cans that sell sugary sodas have a special gum coating on the inside that contains BPA (Bisphenol-A). This substance causes cancer and problems with the reproductive system: premature puberty in children and other reproductive disorders. The connection between obesity and excessive consumption of sugary carbonated drinks has long been proven by all sorts of studies and tests, the risk of getting obese increases by 1.6 times. Diabetes mellitus. Drinkers of sweet soda have an 80% increased risk of getting type 2 diabetes. After a person drinks a glass of sugary soda, blood sugar rises, and the liver processes carbohydrates into fat. Scientists even rank the addiction to carbonated drinks as one of the carcinogenic factors.

One of the most popular soft drinks is Pepsi – cola.

Pepsi-Cola was invented in 1898 by the American pharmacist Caleb Bradham from New Bern. The composition of the soda included pepsin and kola nut extract. He also attributed healing properties to soda and assured that pepsin aided digestion. Pepsi-Cola received its familiar name and wide recognition in 1903. In 1964, Pepsi launched a diet soda.

After drinking a glass of Pepsi, the following happens:

10 minutes after taking 10 teaspoons of sugar (the recommended daily dose) will hit the pancreas. You won’t feel sick just because phosphoric acid inhibits the action of sugar. After 20 minutes, there will be a rise in insulin in the blood. After 40 minutes, the liver converts sugar into fats, caffeine is absorbed, blood pressure rises, because. the liver throws more sugar into the blood, the pupils dilate. After another 45 minutes, the amount of the hormone dopamine increases, this hormone stimulates the pleasure center of the brain, mood improves, vivacity appears, drowsiness decreases, but after an hour and a half, the person becomes irritable, lethargic.

Gradually, the brain adapts to its owner’s habit of drinking soda, begins to produce less of the necessary hormones, since now they can also be obtained artificially, simply by drinking cola. The work of receptors in the “reward system” is deteriorating, forcing you to drink more and more soda to achieve the same effect.

Another popular drink is Coca-Cola, which predated Pepsi. Although both drinks were invented by pharmacists as an exciting, amusing medicine that can even improve digestion. By the way, both pharmaceutical discoveries were patented. The battle between Coca Cola and Pepsi began in 1898 year. At the beginning of its century-long journey, colas had a fundamental difference: Coca-Cola included cocaine from coca leaves and caffeine from kola nut; in the manufacture of Pepsi-Cola, pepsin caffeine from kola nuts was used. The objective boundaries between drinks began to blur in 1903, when cocaine was banned from the production of Coca-Cola. The companies that produce these drinks have been waging advertising wars since time immemorial. They fight in everything: who has better taste, who has a wider line, who has a steeper bank. Pepsi emerged victorious in the 80s, when it got as close as possible to its principled opponent. “Blind tests” then showed that consumers prefer Pepsi if they try drinks from ordinary glasses and do not see the labels.

Energy drinks (“energy drinks”, “energy tonics”) are non-alcoholic or low-alcohol drinks.

Since ancient times, people have used natural stimulants. In the Middle East, it was coffee; in Southeast Asia and China – tea; in India they drank both tea and coffee; in South America – mate, in Africa – kola nuts. In the Far East, in Siberia and Mongolia, such stimulating plants as Chinese magnolia vine, eleutherococcus, ginseng, and aralia are still popular today. There were also strong stimulants – for example, ephedra – in Asia, and coca – in South America. At the same time, the harm from such drinks was minimal – largely due to the natural origin and ecological purity of the components.

Energy drinks appeared on the market in the last quarter of the 20th century, when an Austrian businessman, having visited Asia, decided to open their industrial production. The first mass-produced energy drink was Red Bull, the one that gives you wings. The new drink quickly gained popularity among consumers, along with Coca-Cola and Pepsi, whose manufacturers immediately took their bearings and launched their energy drink variants, Burn and Adrenaline Rush, on the market.

What is the use? Energy drinks allow you to quickly recharge your batteries and almost instantly get a powerful boost of energy for several hours. The benefits of drinking energy drinks seem to be significant, but at the same time, the effect is temporary – with a duration, depending on the specific composition. But every action should have a downside, and not always the same rosy and attractive. The main components of the energy elixirs of our time are:

Taurine. Synthesis of the substance occurs in the gallbladder, participating in a number of metabolic processes and improving cell nutrition. It is considered harmless in small quantities, but not in those in which it can be used as part of modern energy drinks.

Caffeine . Can be replaced by theine or mateine. It mainly serves to increase mental and physical performance, enhancing reaction and memory. At the same time, the pulse rate increases, the level of blood pressure (BP) rises, in many cases, the development of arrhythmia is possible.

Theobromine . Pretty strong stimulant.

Melatonin . Provides the level of vital activity, activity, circadian rhythm of a person.

Vitamins and glucose

Indeed, at first glance, non-alcoholic energy drinks are not so scary – most of these drinks are based on caffeine, sugar, flavors, vitamins. However, the threat is in the concentration of these substances. In one bank of energy drinks with a volume of 300 milliliters, a huge concentration of caffeine, like in seven cups of coffee, is a huge blow to the nervous system, the cardiovascular system, which does not pass without a trace. It should also be noted that energy drinks are highly carbonated drinks with carbonic acid in their composition. Thanks to it, the components that make up the drinks are absorbed much faster, and the desired effect is achieved quite quickly. By law, manufacturers indicate on labels or containers the exact composition of the drink produced, as well as the safe amount of the product for consumption.

How to use

– Do not exceed your daily dose of caffeine – about two cans of the average energy drink. Taking more than two cans in a row can harm your health, and therefore, instead of the desired effect, you will experience side effects.

– At the end of the action of the energy drink, the body needs rest to restore resources.

– Do not drink after sports – they are diuretic, resulting in dehydration and may increase blood pressure.

– Drinks should not be consumed by pregnant women, children and adolescents, the elderly, those with hypertension, diseases of the cardiovascular system, glaucoma, sleep disturbances, increased excitability and sensitivity to caffeine.

– Many drinks very calories If you use energy drinks at the gym, only drink them before your workout. If your plans include only restoring strength, and you are not going to lose weight, you can use such tonics both before and after classes.

– Do not mix tonics with alcohol (as is often done, for example, by visitors to nightclubs). Caffeine increases blood pressure, and when combined with alcohol, its effect is greatly enhanced. As a result, a person may experience a hypertensive crisis.

Health and medical experts claim that tonics are no more than fortified coffee substitutes, only more hazardous to health. So it’s up to you to decide whether to use tonics or not.

Clinical studies of the impact of energy drinks on the human body will be conducted at the Research Institute of Nutrition of the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences. Members of the Moscow city branch of the All-Russian public organization “Young Guard of United Russia” will act as volunteers.