5 Drinks That May Be Harmful to Bone Health
The claim that certain drinks “destroy” or “leach calcium from your bones” is exaggerated. But some beverages can contribute to poorer bone health when consumed excessively or when they replace calcium- and nutrient-rich foods.
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Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation
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Heavy alcohol intake — Excessive alcohol consumption is associated with bone loss and a higher risk of fractures.
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International Osteoporosis Foundation
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Large amounts of cola — Some studies associate cola consumption with lower bone density, particularly in women, although it’s not proven that cola itself directly causes osteoporosis.
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Harvard Health
Highly caffeinated drinks — Excessive caffeine can increase calcium losses, particularly when dietary calcium intake is low.
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International Osteoporosis Foundation
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Energy drinks — These can contain substantial amounts of caffeine and added sugar; frequent, high consumption isn’t a good choice for overall or bone health.
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Cleveland Clinic
Sugary soft drinks — Their biggest concern may be that they displace more nutritious beverages and foods from the diet rather than carbonation itself damaging bones.
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Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation
What should you drink instead?
Water, milk or calcium-fortified alternatives are generally better choices for supporting a bone-healthy diet. Getting adequate calcium, vitamin D, protein, and weight-bearing exercise is much more important than obsessing over avoiding a particular beverage.
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International Osteoporosis Foundation
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And importantly, carbonation itself doesn’t appear to “wash calcium out” of your bones.
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Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation
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