If you're dealing with calcium oxalate stones, it's important to be cautious about your diet. A common part of many people's diet is soda, particularly dark colas. So the question is: are there any soda kidney effects that you need to be aware of? The answer is a resounding yes. There are several ingredients in colas that can lead to forming calcium oxalate crystals.
What's Inside Soda That May Create Calcium Oxalate Challenges?
Let's start with high fructose corn syrup. High fructose corn syrup is often an ingredient that's found in most soft drinks today. While it may seem like a harmless substitute for sugar, it can be detrimental to you if you're dealing with the formation of calcium oxalate crystals.
High fructose corn syrup can increase the urinary excretion of oxalate. And frequent consumption can lead to a buildup of oxalates. In addition, high fructose corn syrup has been shown to increase the excretion of uric acid and calcium. The result can be an accumulation of calcium in addition to the oxalates. This combination can eventually lead to the formation of calcium oxalate crystals in the urinary tract.
Another ingredient that's often found in dark colas is caffeine. As you may know, many people like to drink dark colas for an energy boost from both the sugar and/or caffeine. The problem with caffeine is that it is a diuretic. You may think you are hydrating yourself, but it actually may cause you to lose fluids and become dehydrated, especially if you do not replenish your fluids or hydrate with fluids like water throughout each day.
You need to stay hydrated and maintain fluids passing through your urinary tract. Passing fluids on a regular basis will help you rid your body of the oxalate and calcium in your system before the calcium and oxalates can join together and grow into a hardened crystal.
Phosphate Acid In Dark Colas May Also Create Challenges For You
Another ingredient you often find in dark colas is phosphoric acid. Phosphoric acid is known to increase the acidity PH of urine which can then provide a much better environment for calcium oxalate crystals to form. Therefore, it makes sense to stay away from consuming too much phosphoric acid.
The bottom line is that dark sodas are something you want to avoid, especially if you're dealing with chronic calcium oxalate stones. If you must drink soda, drink a clear citrus soda preferably one that includes an additive of lemon or lime juice. There are many delicious drinks that are refreshing yet do not have the same harmful ingredients as dark sodas.
