4 Alarming Reasons You Should Avoid Drinking Diet Soda, According To A Doctor - Page 3

2. The high phosphorus content in diet sodas can contribute to kidney disease.

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Moving on to his second reason for avoiding diet soda, Dr. Sethi explained that the high phosphorus content in diet sodas can contribute to chronic kidney disease, which several studies have supported. The consumption of sugar, particularly in the form of fructose, has been linked to an increased risk of kidney disease. Research indicates that sugar plays a causal role in several key risk factors for kidney disease. For instance, excessive sugar consumption can lead to elevated serum uric acid levels, which are associated with kidney dysfunction and conditions like gout. Furthermore, high sugar intake is a significant contributor to the development of insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes, both of which are major risk factors for chronic kidney disease.

In addition to its harmful effects on the kidneys, excessive consumption of phosphoric acid—often found in products used for rust removal, hard water stain elimination, and mineral deposit cleaning—can weaken bones by leaching calcium from them. This acid, while effective in industrial applications, poses significant health risks when ingested in large amounts.