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According to a new study, drinking large amounts of carbonated beverages like Coca-Cola and Pepsi may increase testicle size and testosterone levels. Carbonated beverages may potentially lower the incidence of prostate problems and cancer. Prior research has connected soda intake to reproductive dysfunction, decreased sperm quantity, and decreased sperm motility. The conclusions of this study, however, contradict those of earlier investigations.
Researchers from Northwest Minzu University in China conducted the study, which was published in the scientific journal Acta Endocrinol.
Throughout a 15-day period, the researchers tested groups of male mice. The first group merely drank water, whereas the others drank varied amounts of Coca-Cola and Pepsi. According to the study, the testes of mice who solely drank Pepsi or Coca-Cola were “substantially increased on day 15.”
“The outcome demonstrated a high dose of Pepsi or Coca-Cola could promote testis growth and development,” the study authors wrote.
In addition to increased testicle size, researchers also found that “the concentrations of blood testosterone in all animals were boosted following the Pepsi-Cola and Coca-Cola treatment,” which “suggested that high dosages of Pepsi and Coca-Cola might promote testosterone production in male mice.”
“In conclusion, drinking Coca-Cola and Pepsi-Cola may promote testicular development, increase testosterone secretion, and raise serum EGF concentrations….”Our findings provided the scientific basis for fully understanding [carbonated beverages’] effects and their mechanism on the development and reproduction functions of humans, but they also benefit in preventing prostate dysfunction and cancer,” the study authors wrote.
According to the experts, further study on the relationship between soda and fertility is needed.
One such earlier study included a survey of 2,500 males, which found that drinking a one-litre fizzy beverage per day lowered sperm quantity by 30%. Another study discovered that carbonated beverages are linked to changes in hormones that impact ovulation.
They also highlighted the possible health consequences of excessive carbonated beverage intake, such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, and type 2 diabetes.