Sugar-Sweetened Soft Drinks (Colas)
Sugar-sweetened colas contain high sugar, caffeine, and phosphoric acid, all of which are associated with lower bone mineral density and higher fracture risk when consumed frequently.
Bone healing depends on calcium balance and osteoblast activity. Colas disrupt both by increasing calcium loss, inflammation, and displacing nutrient-dense beverages needed for bone repair.
Sugar-sweetened soft drinks, particularly colas, negatively affect bone healing through several converging mechanisms. The high sugar content promotes systemic inflammation and oxidative stress, impairing osteoblast function and collagen formation. Colas also contain phosphoric acid, which can disrupt calcium balance by altering the calcium-to-phosphorus ratio, especially when dietary calcium intake is low. Caffeine further increases urinary calcium excretion and may modestly reduce calcium absorption. Epidemiological studies consistently link frequent cola consumption to lower bone mineral density and increased fracture risk. In the Framingham Osteoporosis Study, women who consumed cola daily had significantly lower hip BMD compared with those who rarely drank cola. These effects are compounded when soft drinks displace calcium-rich beverages such as milk. During bone healing, minimizing sugary sodas helps preserve calcium availability, reduce inflammation, and support optimal bone regeneration.
Avoid