soda
Cans of Zevia soda are seen in a supermarket in Los Angeles, California Reuters/ Lucy Nicholson

Carbonated drinks are fun to drink particularly because of the fizz. Children and adults alike love the bubbly texture of soda and root beer and drink these individually or with a snack or meal.

However, there are dangers behind carbonated beverages that you should know about. Find out why doctors recommend that you stay away from these fizzy drinks to stay safe and healthy.

1. Fat buildup. Research showed that drinking soda can lead to significant fat build-up around the liver and skeletal muscles. In a span of six months, liver fat can increase by 10 percent while skeletal fat can increase to 104 percent. Insulin resistance and diabetes may also result.

2. Disease risks. Carbonated drinks like soda are particularly high in sugar, which put people at greater risk of developing chronic problems like type 2 diabetes and heart disease. A study showed that individuals who consume one to two cans of sugary drinks daily are 26 percent more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. People who consumed one can of sugary drink daily were 20 percent more likely to suffer a heart attack. People who consumed one can daily were also 75 percent more at risk of getting gout.

3. Cancer risk. The caramel coloring that most companies use to make soda brown contain 2-methylimidazole and 4-methylimidazole, which have been found to cause cancer in animals, based on a report by Rodale News. About 16 micrograms of 4-methylimidazole for every person daily is sufficient to present a real threat of cancer development. The two contaminants are said to be purely cosmetic and are present in both regular and diet sodas.

4. Faster aging. All colas contain phosphoric acid or phosphates that give the drink a tangy flavor and improved shelf life. Too much of these can lead to kidney problems, osteoporosis and muscle loss.

5. Weight gain. Because of the high sugar content and calories that carbonated beverages have, it is a natural effect for regular consumers to gain extra fat and weight. A 10-year study showed how adults who drink soda regularly increased their waist circumference by 70 percent.

Basically, carbonated drinks make you look and feel older, beyond posing various health problems. It is best to stay away from the fizzy treats and opt for water instead.