GROW UP –
Feb. 11, 2026 – The Annals of Hepatology links less than one soda a day to a higher risk of metabolic dysfunction–associated liver disease. Experts say sugary sodas overload the liver with fructose, while diet sodas may disrupt the gut microbiome and lead to metabolic issues. Soda is a widely consumed beverage worldwide, but its popularity carries significant health risks. We know that regular consumption of this fizzy beverage is linked to a higher risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and tooth decay, but recent research in Annals of Hepatology also found that consuming less than one can a day may be linked to serious liver problems.
The study examined the association between soft drink consumption and liver dysfunction among 1,759 healthcare workers. Researchers identified participants with liver dysfunction and analyzed their dietary habits, ultimately hypothesizing that non-diet soft drink consumption was associated with an increased risk of metabolic dysfunction-associated with steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly called nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
