Do Carbonated Beverages Cause Bone Loss?
Some studies that monitor for associations between dietary habits and health problems have discovered that people who drink carbonated beverages have higher risks of bone fractures. Some scientists have hypothesized that phosphoric acid in carbonated beverages might leach calcium from bones. Others wonder if it could be that caffeine in carbonated beverages reduces calcium absorption. But none of this is likely true. Chances are that people who drink soft drinks consume less milk and get less calcium for that reason. People who drink soda must be sure to get enough calcium. For an adult, a least 1000 to 1200 mg/day of elemental calcium is essential. And 400 IU of Vitamin D, too. H.T. (Prescribers Letter 11(11):64).
