Sodas have proven to be refreshing and healthy. Nutritionists often advise drinking them instead of sugary drinks (colas, etc.). But how does soda affect weight? Are there any benefits? You may be surprised, but new studies have shown that these fizzy drinks can speed up digestion, which contributes to weight loss.
ContentHow soda affects weight: recent scientific findingsCan soda help me lose weight? Which soda is best to drink?
This is the conclusion of the study published on January 20 in BMJ Nutrition Prevention & Health. It says that the CO2 in these carbonated waters can “promote weight loss by enhancing glucose absorption and metabolism in red blood cells.” WomanEL will tell you everything you need to know about the research results.
How carbonated water affects weight: recent findings of scientists
The study was based on a previous study by researcher Akira Takashi and his team on hemodialysis, which was conducted in 2004. According to the study, hemodialysis is performed during kidney dialysis, when blood is filtered to remove waste products and excess water.
During this process, CO2 is released into the blood, just as when you drink soda. The carbon in these drinks may help glucose absorption, which can help you lose weight, the researchers found.
“CO2 in carbonated water may promote weight loss,” Takahashi writes in his study. However, “it should be integrated into a broader healthy lifestyle strategy and not relied on as a primary weight loss tool… Carbonated water is not a stand-alone solution for weight loss.” He continues, “A balanced diet and regular physical activity remain the most important components of sustainable weight management.”
These fizzy drinks are also often used as appetite suppressants, the study notes. “The distension of the gastric antrum (the lower part of the stomach) due to the release of dissolved gas from the carbonated water induces satiety, which can lead to further satiety and gastric motility, thereby reducing hunger,” the study says.
While this may sound appealing to those on a weight loss journey, not all fizzy drinks provide this feeling. And only ordinary carbonated water.
Can sparkling water help me lose weight?
Are you on a weight loss journey? You might be interested to know that your favorite can of sparkling water can help you reach your goals. However, it's not the only thing you should rely on.
Sparkling water can potentially “help” someone lose weight by absorbing CO2 glucose. But whether you drink still or sparkling water while losing weight is largely a matter of personal preference, as the weight loss benefits are very small either way,” says weight loss coach Emily Morse.
Morse wasn't surprised by the results. “When calorie intake is reduced due to weight loss, drinking a low-calorie carbonated beverage, such as sparkling water, can be beneficial. It makes you feel 'full,'” she says. That feeling of fullness, she says, can help prevent food cravings. Don't expect to shed pounds just from your choice of beverage. The benefits of drinking sparkling water for weight loss “are so small that it's hard to expect a weight loss effect from the CO2 in the sparkling water alone,” the study notes. In addition, many people can experience unpleasant side effects when drinking carbonated beverages. For example, “feeling bloated or gassy from the carbon dioxide,” Morse says.
What is the best sparkling water to drink?
If you've been to any grocery store lately, you know how many sparkling water options are available. However, not all of them are healthy options. The best sparkling waters are those that are free of sugar, artificial sweeteners, and other additives,” Morse explains.
Look for the most “natural” flavor, without any added “natural flavors.” If you’re not a fan of sparkling water, Morse says you can totally go with still. “Staying hydrated can go a long way toward helping you lose weight. Whether you prefer still or sparkling water, choose the one that works best for you,” she says.
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