Drinking Carbonated and 'Light' Beverages? Here's What Happens 'Below the Surface'

In addition to damaging oral health, teeth, and gums, carbonated drinks play another negative role in our bodies, known medically as 'gastroesophageal reflux.'

What is Gastroesophageal Reflux? 

Reflux, also known as gastric reflux, is a condition where acidic content returns from the stomach to the esophagus, causing harm. 

Reflux occurs when there is an issue with the lower esophageal sphincter, and after it releases food into the stomach, it does not close properly. As a result, the content in the stomach flows back into the esophagus. 

According to research published in the journal 'Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases' - researchers found that carbonated drinks significantly impact gastroesophageal reflux, and also contribute to discomfort in the stomach as well as gas, constipation or diarrhea, and abdominal pain. 

Because drinking carbonated beverages causes carbon dioxide to be expelled from the stomach through the mouth, they also lead to frequent belching - when the air swallowed through the mouth becomes excessive. 

Studies have proven that carbonated drinks are often the cause of abdominal bloating, resulting from gas and the unsettled state of intestinal muscles.