September 13, 2025

Why Phosphate-Loaded Sodas Hammer Your Metabolism Harder Than Sugar

7 minutes

A single can of cola floods your system with nearly 100% absorbable inorganic phosphate, triggering hormonal shifts that disrupt vitamin D, calcium balance, and kidney function
Phosphate in soda raises levels of FGF23, a hormone that accelerates vascular calcification, weakens bones, and increases your long-term risk of heart attack or stroke, even if your labs are normal
Unlike natural sources, phosphate additives in soda are rapidly absorbed and bypass digestive safeguards, placing a silent burden on your kidneys and arteries with every sip
When combined with high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS), soda creates a metabolic double hit — HFCS promotes liver fat, raises uric acid, and drives insulin resistance, while phosphate sabotages hormonal and mineral balance
Replacing soda with sparkling citrus water, magnesium glycinate, and vitamin K2 helps support your bones, protect your heart, and reverse the silent damage phosphate leaves behind

...more

By Dr. Mercola

4.6

14801,480 ratings

September 13, 2025

7 minutes

A single can of cola floods your system with nearly 100% absorbable inorganic phosphate, triggering hormonal shifts that disrupt vitamin D, calcium balance, and kidney function
Phosphate in soda raises levels of FGF23, a hormone that accelerates vascular calcification, weakens bones, and increases your long-term risk of heart attack or stroke, even if your labs are normal
Unlike natural sources, phosphate additives in soda are rapidly absorbed and bypass digestive safeguards, placing a silent burden on your kidneys and arteries with every sip
When combined with high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS), soda creates a metabolic double hit — HFCS promotes liver fat, raises uric acid, and drives insulin resistance, while phosphate sabotages hormonal and mineral balance
Replacing soda with sparkling citrus water, magnesium glycinate, and vitamin K2 helps support your bones, protect your heart, and reverse the silent damage phosphate leaves behind

...more