Drinking carbonated beverages can cause calcium loss and lead to osteoporosis.

  Some observational studies suggest that people who drink carbonated beverages have a higher risk of fractures.

  Researchers say it's not the carbonation but the ingredients in the beverage that are responsible...phosphates, caffeine, and sugar.

  Caffeine has been implicated alone as a risk factor for osteoporosis. It's theorized that caffeine causes an increase in urinary calcium and may also reduce calcium absorption. But its effects, if any, are minimal. For example, the potential effect from a cup of coffee would be negated by just 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk.

Get concise advice on drug therapy, plus unlimited access to CE

Pharmacist's Letter Canada includes:

  • 12 issues every year, with brief articles about new meds and hot topics
  • 200+ CE courses, including the popular CE-in-the-Letter
  • Quick reference drug comparison charts
  • Access to the entire archive

Already a subscriber? Log in

Volume pricing available. Get quote