Summers are here and so is the need to quench that thirst. Soft drinks or sodas are quite popular in Singapore and a favoured choice of beverage in the summer.
In fact, a survey conducted in Singapore in July 2019, concluded that around seven percent of the respondents drank soft drinks every day. Whereas over 32 percent of the respondents consumed soft drinks on a monthly basis. While there has been a consumer shift towards healthier beverage choices among Singaporeans in recent years, the consumption still remains high.
Now we all know the obvious harmful effects of soda on the human body. From weight gain, diabetes, high blood sugar, and even link to early death, there’s plenty to stop you from having one. If that does not do the trick, this new study just might make you reconsider.
A recent report suggests that consuming too much soda could be affecting your fertility levels. This can in turn affect your chances of having a baby. The report cites multiple studies about women undergoing fertility treatments and how frequent consumption of soft drinks decreased their chances of conceiving a child.
Artificial Sweeteners In Sodas Can Cause Infertility
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The problem is said to be with artificial sweeteners added in sodas that are chemical-based, which are likely to lower your fertility levels. Aspartame is an artificial softener used in most soft drinks, which can alter the functioning of the endocrine glands and lead to hormonal imbalances.
The research further shows that drinking one soda per day is linked with a 20-25 percent reduction in the average monthly probability of conception in both men and women.
The adverse effects of excessive soda consumption are not just limited to natural conception but can also have additional implications if you are opting for fertility treatments like intrauterine insemination (IUI) or In vitro fertilisation (IVF).
Additional studies do support this. A 2018 study by the Boston University School of Public Health stated that women who consumed at least one soda per day had 25 percent lower fecundability (possibility of conception). Meanwhile, male consumption of one soda per was linked to 33 percent lower fecundability. The study further concluded that the intake of energy drinks was related to an even higher reduction of infertility.
Effects Of Soda On The Human Body
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Men are at four times the risk of lowering sperm count and motility by regularly drinking soda. Excess consumption can also lead to generating free radicals that will kill sperm and ovum. Carbonated soft drinks are also rich in caffeine that reduces menstrual bleeding in women, which decreases the chances of conception.
Another study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, suggests that higher consumption of soda leads to lower sperm quality. The study conducted by the Seattle Sperm Bank in the US showed that the more soda men drank, the poorer quality their sperm turned out to be.
Other Harmful Effects Of Soda
1. The most obvious downside of having too much soda is that it leads to weight gain. It is also one of the leading causes of obesity along with fast food and can result in poor digestion.
2. Excessive soda consumption can also lead to an increased risk of insulin resistance. Soda increases blood sugar levels and can lead to Type-2 diabetes, which not only causes fertility issues but can create more complications during pregnancy.
3. Too much soda can also disrupt the hormonal levels in the body including oestrogen that can contribute to infertility in women.
4. Drinking too much soda is bad for your teeth as it can wear off the enamel that is intended to protect your teeth from acidic substances. Moreover, it can lower your bone strength and all affect other organs in the body.
Alternative Drinks You Can Consume Instead Of Soda
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1. Iced tea
Instead of a can of soda, try something more natural like iced tea. There are a variety of choices and you can always alter the drink to suit your taste buds. It does not have any calories either, which makes it a great alternative to sodas.
2. Lemonade
The classic summer drink. Freshly-squeezed lemonade may be as old as time but never gets boring. The citrusy flavour will keep your taste palette happy while ensuring you are fresh throughout the day.
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3. Sparkling water
A modern-day alternative to sodas, sparkling water is healthier and is more easily available too. You get it in bottles and cans, just like sodas which makes it easy to carry or order at any time of the day.
4. Fruit juices
If something sweet is what you crave, try opting for fruit juices next time. Naturally sweetened without harmful chemicals, fruit juices are good for health and low on fat too.
5. Coconut water
Packaged coconut water is a legitimate thing now and easily available at a grocery store near you. It is a natural source of potassium and electrolytes, which makes it better than plain water, while no sugar or fat makes it a great health drink.
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Couples looking to conceive a baby would want to cut back on the soda for the next couple of months. Instead, replace your beverage choices with healthier options, and do the same with your diet too. Having foods like eggs and green vegetables will increase your chances of conception.
Do remember, the study was about excessive consumption. You can still occasionally enjoy your soft drink as long as your drink it in moderation.
In addition, you also need to add regular sleep, reduction of stress and regular exercise to maintain the pH levels of the body. All of this will contribute to making that healthy baby. Do make sure to speak to your gynaecologist if you have other complications.
News Source: Tribuneindia.com
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