Is drinking sparkling beverages bad for your bones?

There has been recent concern that the phosphoric acid and caffeine in soft drinks may lower the body's absorption of calcium and have an impact on bone health.

However, cola actually contains very little phosphorous - only about 2% of total dietary phosphorus. The vast majority - 98% - of dietary phosphorus comes from high-protein foods like meats, cheeses, nuts and grains.

The Australian National Health and Medical Research Council set up a Recommended Daily Intake (RDI) for adults of 1000mg phosphoric acid/day for adults. A 250ml can of Coca-Cola provides 43mg while a serving (250ml) of orange juice provides 28mg.

Globally recognised as the most comprehensive study, The Surgeon General's 2004 report on "Bone Health and Osteoporosis" concluded that "phosphorous is necessary for healthy bones," and both too little phosphorous and too much phosphorous have been considered by some researchers to be detrimental to bones. The Surgeon General's report found that "possible negative effects of soft drinks on bones may be due primarily to the replacement of calcium-rich milk with soft drinks, especially by children and teenagers at a time when they need extra calcium to optimize their peak bone mass” and noted that "caffeine consumption leads to a small decrease in calcium absorption" but concluded that "as long as adequate levels of calcium intake are maintained, however, both carbonated and caffeinated beverages can be consumed in moderation."

However, the Surgeon General also concluded that children and adults should get more calcium by drinking more milk or consuming other calcium-containing foods or drinks. 

If you have specific questions about diet, bone health or osteoporosis, you should ask your doctor or an Accredited Practising dietitian.