Inflammation in the digestive tract may lead to a condition known as ulcerative colitis. Although limited research is available linking food products with the cause or symptoms of ulcerative colitis, experts suggest avoiding carbonated soft drinks, as the carbonation, acidity, caffeine and sugar content may worsen symptoms of ulcerative colitis. Symptoms of ulcerative colitis include bloody diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, nausea and fatigue. Consult with a health care professional regarding diet recommendations and treatment options.
Sugar Content
Food products and beverage items abundant in sugar, such as carbonated soda, should be avoided by individuals diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, since the body may have difficulty digesting the sugar. According to Elaine Gottschall, M.Sc., incomplete digestion results in a bacterial attack in which bacteria pull apart the molecular compound of the sugar. The attack produces an entrapment of hydrogen and carbon dioxide gas, which may exacerbate symptoms of ulcerative colitis, such as flatulence. Furthermore, the undigested sugar multiplies the yeast and bacteria population in the colon. To eliminate them requires starving them of food, in particular, sugar and other carbohydrates.
Caffeine
Carbonated soft drinks contain caffeine, which has a stimulatory effect on the intestines and may worsen diarrhea. A study published in the February 2005 edition of "Nutritional Journal" discovered a correlation between the symptoms of ulcerative colitis and food substances containing anti-thiamine properties. Thiamine, otherwise known as vitamin B1, helps the body to convert food into energy and provides support for the immune system, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The study concluded that caffeine is one substance that has a negative effect on thiamine; therefore, it should be avoided by individuals diagnosed with ulcerative colitis.
Acidity
Phosphoric acid is a common ingredient found in soda pop. It is a highly acidic chemical compound that negatively impacts the bloodstream and the stomach. The bloodstream requires an alkaline environment; however, the presence of phosphoric acid increases the level of acidity in the blood. In an effort to neutralize the pH levels in the bloodstream, the body must leach calcium from the teeth and bones. Since individuals living with ulcerative colitis are advised to avoid difficult to digest dairy products, such as yogurt and milk, they may have a tendency to be deficient in calcium. Eliminating soda pop from the diet may help to retain some calcium for healthy bones and teeth. Furthermore, the stomach contains a higher level of acidity than phosphoric acid. The introduction of phosphoric acid into the stomach will neutralize its level of acidity and result in digestive disturbances, according to Andrea Purcell, N.D.
Carbonation
Individuals diagnosed with ulcerative colitis often complain of digestive discomforts. The carbonation in soda may worsen symptoms of ulcerative colitis. Mayo Clinic explains that the gas in carbonated beverages gets trapped in the stomach and intestines, resulting in bloating, belching or flatulence.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Ulcerative Colitis Lifestyle and Home Remedies
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Ulcerative Colitis
- Mayo Clinic: Ulcerative Colitis Treatment and Drugs
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Ulcerative Colitis
- Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology: Ulcerative Colitis
- UVA Digestive Health Center: Nutrition and Ulcerative Colitis
