You might reach for it without a second thought—but new research reveals it’s speeding up our biological clock. Here’s what you need to know before your next sip.
Soda linked to cellular aging
Researchers publishing in the American Journal of Public Health in 2014 found that people who consume sugary sodas daily show signs of premature aging at the cellular level. Participants sipping more soda had significantly shorter telomeres—the protective caps on chromosomes—in their white blood cells. I’ll never forget my shock swapping my afternoon cola for water after learning it could shave years off my cells.
Telomeres: the biological clock
Telomeres function like the plastic tips at the end of shoelaces, preventing DNA strands from fraying. Over time, these caps naturally shorten, but when they’re already critically short, it’s linked to reduced lifespan and higher risk of chronic disease. Elissa Epel, a psychiatry professor at UCSF, explains that sugar-laden drinks not only strain our metabolic system but also accelerate tissue-level aging, regardless of age, ethnicity or income.
Widespread health implications
A follow-up review in Current Nutrition Reports (2021) confirmed that regular consumption of sugary beverages disrupts the gut microbiome, fuels chronic inflammation, and boosts oxidative stress—all key drivers of accelerated aging. It’s a stark reminder that those fizzy rewards carry hidden costs for long-term health.
Gut microbiome and inflammation
Beyond cellular wear, sugary sodas can unbalance the community of microbes in our intestines, weakening our natural defences. Persistent inflammation inflames tissues, making our bodies age faster and increasing vulnerability to illness. The takeaway? For a youthful glow and robust health, think twice before grabbing that can of soda—your future self will thank you.
