Association between Carbonated Soft Drink Consumption and Biochemical Markers of Hepatic and Renal Functions in Adults: A Cross Sectional Study

Author(s): Mohsin Saad Wali
Date: 09/10/2026
doi: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.8425890

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Abstract

Carbonated soft drinks are one of the most popular drinks in the world. The high amount of sugar, 
phosphoric acid, caffeine and artificial additives have been linked to obesity, metabolic syndrome, liver 
dysfunction and kidney impairment. The purpose of this research was to assess the impacts of drinking 
carbonated soft drinks on adults' biochemical parameters concerning liver and kidney functions. The 
subjects were 90 persons aged 18-45 years. The participants were divided into three groups based on 
intake of soft drinks: a control group (those who never consumed soft drinks), moderate consumers (those 
who consumed soft drinks 2–3 times per week), and heavy consumers (those who consumed soft drinks 
4–5 times per day). The serum levels of ALT, AST, ALP, total bilirubin, urea, creatinine and uric acid 
were determined. There was a significant increase in ALT, AST, ALP, urea, creatinine and uric acid levels 
in heavy consumers compared to control (p < 0.05). Positive associations between frequency of 
consumption of soft drinks and biochemical markers of hepatic and renal dysfunction were found. 
Carbonated soft drinks can have a bad effect on liver and kidney functions. Excessive soft drinks should 
be promoted for all to be aware of the negative biochemical effects.

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