Soda and carbonated beverages-particularly cola-have been linked to lower bone mass in women, a new study shows. According to a report in the April issue of The American Journal of Clinical Nutirition, 2,500 women (average age 60) in the study who consumed four carbonated cola drinks a week exhibited low bone mineral density in their hips. Experts believe people who drink cola are less likely to get enough calcium and vitamin D because cola replaces other, more nutritious beverages, such as milk or calcium-fortified juice. The problem also may be related to the caffeine in cola, because caffeine has been associated with a higher risk of osteoporosis. The phosphoric acid found in cola also can cause an imbalance in the body as the body attempts to neutralize the acid with calcium that is taken from the bones. Researchers found less of a problem with decaffeinated cola, but their findings were similar for diet soft drinks. Their recommendation: Limit cola consumption to one or two glasses a week.
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