The consumption of sugary sodas has been associated with a higher risk of health problems such as overweight or obesity, type 2 diabetes, early menstruation, and poor semen quality.
But, did you know that precisely because of this, they can directly affect fertility?
To put it into perspective: approximately 17.5% of adults experience infertility, according to data from the World Health Organization (WHO). Although half of these situations are due to male causes, this problem is generally associated with women. On the other hand, only 11% of men with fertility problems are aware of their condition, suggesting that around 3.7 million Spaniards could be facing these kinds of difficulties without knowing it.
In recent times, thanks to some studies, findings have been made that drinking one or more carbonated beverages every day can reduce the chances of getting pregnant. Deborah Anderson, from the Boston University Medical Center, and her colleagues received a chemistry award for a study conducted in 1985 and published in the New England Journal of Medicine, where they discovered that Coca-Cola killed sperm.
Another study, like the one from Northwest Minzu University in China and published in the scientific journal Acta Endocrinol, aimed to determine the impact that carbonated beverages such as Coca-Cola and Pepsi have on fertility, suggesting that soda consumption can increase testosterone levels and testicle size in men.
There were previous studies linking soda consumption to damage to reproductive functions, reduced sperm count, and reduced sperm motility. To test their hypothesis, researchers studied groups of male mice. The first group drank only water, while the remaining groups drank varying levels of Coca-Cola and Pepsi, respectively. Over a 15-day period, scientists conducted blood tests and measurements of weight and testicular diameter.
The study found that the testicles of mice that drank only Pepsi or Coca-Cola significantly increased in size over the 15 days. The result showed that a high dose of Pepsi or Coca-Cola could promote testicular growth and development. In addition to the increased testicle size, researchers also found that "serum testosterone concentrations in all mice increased after treatment with Pepsi-Cola and Coca-Cola."
This study found that carbonated beverages are associated with alterations in hormones that affect ovulation. Although researchers said that more research is needed on the link between soda and fertility, the study acknowledges that soda consumption "may lead to obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and type 2 diabetes" and that previous studies have indicated that "the harmful health effects of carbonated beverages on teenagers and children are serious."
On the other hand, Professor Elizabeth Hatch of epidemiology and director of the research, published in Epidemiology, that they found an association between the habit of drinking one or more sugary drinks a day (in either partner) and decreased fertility, even after considering other factors that could influence conception such as obesity, alcohol consumption, caffeine or tobacco, and diet.
The researchers used information gathered through the online Pregnancy Study Online (PRESTO), focusing on 3,828 women aged 21 to 45 living in the United States or Canada, as well as 1,045 of their male partners. All participants filled out surveys providing details about their health, lifestyle, and diet, including the consumption of sugary drinks. Additionally, women completed additional questionnaires every two months for a year or until they achieved pregnancy.
Does soda consumption affect sperm quality?
Men who consume high amounts of soda may see their sperm quality affected, especially sperm concentration and count. It has been suggested that this negative effect of cola drinks on sperm quality is not so much related to their caffeine content but to other components or to the generally less healthy lifestyle that can be associated with high consumption of these beverages.
For example, the results of Professor Elizabeth Hatch's work showed a relationship between the consumption of sugary drinks - in both sexes - and a reduction of 20% in the monthly average probability of fertilization. In women, drinking one of these beverages every day reduced fertility by 25%, and this same consumption was associated with a 33% reduction in fertility capacity in men.
Energy drink consumption was linked to a significant reduction in fertility, although it is noted that this conclusion comes from a small group of consumers. On the other hand, the probability of conceiving decreased to a lesser extent when participants consumed fruit juices or light sodas.
In view of the results, Elizabeth Hatch has advised that couples planning a future pregnancy should consider limiting the intake of these types of drinks, especially considering that their frequent consumption has also been linked to other adverse effects on health.
Carlos Balmori, a urologist and specialist in Reproductive, Sexual, and Regenerative Medicine, points out that high intake of these types of drinks could be related to a decrease in sperm quality, "including parameters such as sperm concentration and mobili
And on the other hand, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends that pregnant women limit their caffeine intake to a maximum of 300 mg/day. Therefore, if possible, pregnant women should avoid drinking strong coffee. Additionally, certain cola drinks contain phosphorus substances, colorings, and flavorings that affect bone growth and calcification. In short, pregnant women should avoid these drinks and drink room temperature water or mineral water instead as their main source of hydration.
Remember that it is important to consider that high consumption of these drinks increases caffeine and clonidine intake, stimulating the central nervous system and leading to effects such as irritability, accelerated heart and respiratory rate, insomnia, among other adverse effects. Since caffeine can pass through the placenta, the bone development and other vital organs of the baby could be compromised, resulting in a lower birth weight.
Additionally, it has been pointed out that these drinks contain phosphorus and colorings, and according to another specialist, they also have considerably high levels of sugar. It is also important to note that their composition can alter hormonal balance, affecting both men and women, underscoring concerns about their negative impact on reproductive health and overall well-being.
It is important to recognize that the path to a healthy and successful pregnancy is multifaceted, not always linear, and depends on a variety of factors, including diet and lifestyle. Reducing or eliminating the consumption of sugary sodas can be a beneficial step not only to improve reproductive health but also to promote overall well-being. This change, accompanied by other healthy choices, can contribute to a significant improvement in the chances of conception and the long-term health of future generations.
At Mater Clinic, we understand the importance of a comprehensive approach to reproductive health. Our experts are dedicated to providing support and guidance to couples on their journey to parenthood, helping them make informed decisions to improve their fertility and overall well-being.
Remember that small changes in our daily lives can have a profound impact on our health and our ability to welcome new life. Choosing to avoid sugary sodas is a positive step towards better reproductive and overall health, underscoring the importance of adopting healthy habits for ourselves and for future generations.
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