Addiction is a serious physical and mental disorder. It is characterized by the need to constantly use a given substance, even if it has a negative effect on the human body. Contrary to popular belief, you can get addicted to practically anything - not just alcohol, drugs or medications.
In the 21st century, there is more and more talk of a specific addiction, which is addiction to carbonated drinks. At the very beginning, it should be emphasized that this disorder has not been officially defined, and thus, it is not included in the group of known, conventional diseases. Still, this addiction causes a lot of controversy among scientists and is subject to numerous studies.
Definition of addiction to carbonated drinks
Addiction to carbonated drinks can be taken as part of food addiction. For the purposes of this article, we define them as drinking excessive amounts of carbonated drinks without being able to quit or even limit their consumption - even when negative effects occur. This condition shares many features with drug addiction.
What determines addiction to carbonated drinks
Most carbonated drinks have some - relatively readily available - substances that are potentially addictive. I am talking about caffeine and sugar, as well as artificial sweeteners. Sodium can also be dangerous.
Occasional drinking of all kinds of gas solutions does not cause major health problems. However, becoming addicted to the most popular delicacies is not as difficult as it may seem; it is enough to consume them at least once a day. The seemingly harmless 250ml of your favorite drink, consumed 7 days a week, can lead to addiction.
Symptoms of addiction to carbonated drinks
Symptoms of addiction to carbonated drinks appear after a long, regular time of taking a given substance. It is difficult to estimate the exact number of days in this regard, as much depends on the individual conditions of a given individual. One person needs a month of consuming their favorite drink every day, and another six months. The problem starts with a strong thirst that can only be satisfied by this one product. Over time, the addicted person becomes mentally preoccupied with drinking until he is unable to limit his intake of it.
Side effects of addiction to carbonated drinks
High consumption of carbonated drinks usually leads to rapid weight gain, but a glass of standard gas juice contains about 100 calories - a bottle of more than 500 calories. Extra kilos increase the risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Among the side effects of this addiction, it is impossible not to mention non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or dental problems.
Addiction to carbonated drinks - due to its nature - is treated with the help of a psychologist, psychiatrist or psychotherapist. In extreme cases, it is necessary to isolate the sick person by confining them to a special center.