Does Coca-Cola Help with Inflammation? The Unhealthy Truth

According to the National Institutes of Health, excessive intake of added sugar, like the kind found in Coca-Cola, is strongly linked to increased levels of inflammation in the body. The widespread belief that flat soda can soothe an upset stomach is a common myth that medical professionals consistently debunk.

Quick Summary

Coca-Cola and other sugary sodas contain ingredients that are known to promote inflammation, particularly due to high sugar content. This can contribute to chronic diseases and worsen existing inflammatory conditions rather than helping them.

Key Points

• Exacerbates, not helps, inflammation: Due to its high sugar content, Coca-Cola is pro-inflammatory and can worsen existing chronic conditions.

• High sugar content is the main driver: The high-fructose corn syrup in Coca-Cola triggers the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

• Linked to chronic disease: Regular consumption of sugar-sweetened sodas is associated with an increased risk of chronic inflammatory diseases like type 2 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.

• Other ingredients also play a role: Phosphoric acid can negatively impact bone and kidney health, while artificial sweeteners may disrupt the gut microbiome.

• Healthier alternatives exist: Options like water, herbal tea, and infused water are far better choices for rehydration and managing inflammation.

• Old remedies are debunked: The myth that 'flat Coke' helps an upset stomach has been discredited by medical experts who recommend oral rehydration solutions instead.

Debunking the Myth: Why Coca-Cola Won't Help Inflammation

For years, an old wives' tale has persisted that a glass of flat Coca-Cola can help soothe a stomach ailment. This has led some to question if the carbonated drink might have anti-inflammatory properties. However, modern scientific research paints a clear and very different picture. Instead of being a remedy, the ingredients in Coca-Cola and other sugar-sweetened beverages are consistently linked to promoting chronic inflammation, which is the underlying factor in many serious health conditions.

The Sugary Culprit

At the core of Coca-Cola's negative impact on inflammation is its high sugar content, which has been shown to cause adverse health consequences. A single 12-ounce can contains approximately 39 grams of sugar, often in the form of high-fructose corn syrup. This is significantly more than the American Heart Association's daily recommendation. Excess sugar consumption triggers the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are signaling molecules that amplify inflammatory responses in the body. Over time, this constant state of low-grade inflammation can contribute to the development of chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

The Impact of Other Ingredients

Beyond sugar, other components in Coca-Cola can also play a role in promoting inflammation or negatively impacting health:

• High-fructose corn syrup (HFCS): Studies have found that high consumption of fructose, a primary component of HFCS, can increase systemic inflammation and lead to insulin resistance. It is also linked to the accumulation of fat in the liver, which can lead to inflammation and damage.
• Phosphoric acid: This ingredient gives cola its tangy flavor but is also linked to negative health effects. High intake is associated with reduced bone mineral density, a risk factor for osteoporosis. Additionally, a high level of phosphoric acid consumption can impact kidney health. The chronic effects of prolonged exposure to phosphoric acid in high concentrations have been known to cause lung inflammation.
• Caffeine: The caffeine in cola can have complex effects on the body. While coffee, with its rich antioxidants, can have anti-inflammatory benefits, the caffeine in sugary soda works differently. In some individuals, caffeine can exacerbate stress responses and, in high amounts, potentially disrupt sleep, which is a known factor in increasing inflammatory markers.
• Artificial sweeteners: For diet versions of soda, artificial sweeteners are used instead of sugar. Some research suggests these can negatively alter gut bacteria, which can also contribute to increased inflammation.

Comparison of Coca-Cola's Ingredients and Anti-Inflammatory Foods

To illustrate the stark difference, consider the inflammatory potential of Coca-Cola versus the anti-inflammatory effects of healthy foods:

Feature	Coca-Cola	Anti-Inflammatory Foods (e.g., Berries, Leafy Greens)
Sugar Content	Extremely High (approx. 39g per 12oz)	Low or natural sugars only
Key Components	High-fructose corn syrup, phosphoric acid, caffeine, caramel coloring	Vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, fiber
Effect on Cytokines	Increases pro-inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein (CRP) and IL-6	Decreases pro-inflammatory cytokine expression
Oxidative Stress	May increase free radicals and oxidative stress	Rich in antioxidants, which fight free radicals and cellular damage
Gut Microbiome	Can negatively alter gut bacteria balance	Supports healthy gut microbiota diversity and function

The Consequences for Chronic Conditions

Regular consumption of sugary beverages like Coca-Cola has a particularly pronounced impact on individuals with or at risk for chronic inflammatory conditions. Research from the Nurses' Health Study found that women who consumed one or more sugar-sweetened sodas daily had a 63% increased risk of developing seropositive rheumatoid arthritis. The high sugar content can also worsen symptoms for people with osteoarthritis and other joint-related issues. Far from providing relief, soda exacerbates the underlying issues that drive these conditions.

Healthier Alternatives

If you are seeking genuine anti-inflammatory effects or relief from an upset stomach, there are numerous healthier alternatives to Coca-Cola. For general inflammation, focus on a balanced diet rich in whole foods, like those found in the Mediterranean diet. For stomach issues, instead of soda, try small sips of water or oral rehydration solutions to replace electrolytes. Ginger ale with real ginger can be effective for nausea, as ginger has known digestive benefits. Other excellent choices include herbal teas, infused water with lemon and mint, or unsweetened green tea, which is rich in anti-inflammatory antioxidants.

Conclusion

In summary, the notion that Coca-Cola helps with inflammation is entirely false and contradicted by a large body of scientific evidence. The beverage's high content of sugar and other additives can actually promote and worsen inflammation throughout the body. For anyone concerned about their health, especially those with inflammatory conditions, the best course of action is to avoid sugar-sweetened beverages and opt for healthier, genuinely beneficial alternatives. Choosing water, herbal tea, or antioxidant-rich options is a far better path toward reducing chronic inflammation and improving overall well-being. By understanding the true impact of these drinks, consumers can make more informed choices that support their long-term health.

References

• Dr.Oracle. How can I reduce inflammation caused by sugar intake? https://www.droracle.ai/articles/304466/sugar-intake-and-inflammation. Accessed 22 Oct 2025.
• Hu, F.B. & Malik, V.S. Sugar-sweetened soda consumption and risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis in women. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4135503/. Accessed 22 Oct 2025.
• Mediclinic. Myth-busting the common stomach bug. https://www.mediclinicinfohub.co.za/myth-busting-common-stomach-bug/. Accessed 22 Oct 2025.
• Ma, X., et al. Excessive intake of sugar: An accomplice of inflammation. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9471313/. Accessed 22 Oct 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can drinking Coca-Cola cause inflammation?

Yes, regular consumption of Coca-Cola and other sugar-sweetened beverages can cause inflammation. The high amount of added sugar, especially high-fructose corn syrup, increases inflammatory markers in the body.

Is drinking flat Coca-Cola good for a stomach bug?

No, this is a myth. According to medical professionals, sugary drinks like Coca-Cola can actually aggravate an upset stomach and worsen dehydration. It is better to use oral rehydration solutions or drink small sips of water.

How does the sugar in Coca-Cola lead to inflammation?

The excess sugar intake from sodas causes a rapid spike in blood sugar, prompting the body to release pro-inflammatory compounds called cytokines. This can create a state of chronic, low-grade inflammation over time.

What are healthier alternatives to soda for reducing inflammation?

For reducing inflammation, opt for water, herbal tea, or water infused with fruits like lemon and mint. For a stomachache, real ginger ale (with actual ginger) or oral rehydration solutions are better choices.

Does diet Coca-Cola help with inflammation?

Diet soda, including diet Coca-Cola, uses artificial sweeteners. Some research suggests these sweeteners can negatively alter the gut microbiome, which may also contribute to increased inflammation.

Does Coca-Cola's phosphoric acid contribute to inflammation?

While the low concentration in soda is less harmful than industrial exposure, phosphoric acid is linked to other health issues like reduced bone density. Some research also suggests a link between high phosphate intake and increased mortality in patients with chronic kidney disease. The primary inflammatory driver in soda, however, is the sugar content.