Drinking soda may help with constipation

An excessive amount of soda can make you rush to the bathroom. But unlike any other claim, it is not the hidden fibre or laxative that does it.

    Caffeine, an active element found in a variety of sodas, can cause you to urinate. In addition, caffeine can aggravate the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in a small number of persons. This active ingredient is shown to stimulate the intestines and promote motility. Motility is defined as the movement that permits stool to transit through the digestive tract for evacuation.

    Some sweet and fizzy sodas contain high-fructose corn syrup, a fructose mixture that some people cannot digest. This is known as fructose malabsorption, and symptoms include bloating, cramping, and diarrhea.

    Artificial sweeteners can cause constipation. They draw water into the colon and aid in stool mobilization, which might result in bathroom runs.

    The carbonation that provides fizz to your soda is another reason why it may cause diarrhea. This can result in indigestion, belching, and gas. It will not cause IBS, but if you are sensitive to carbonated beverages and have IBS, the bloating and gas may induce a flare-up and result in diarrhea.

If soda causes diarrhea, ginger ale may be a better option. Natural ginger ale is caffeine-free and made entirely of ginger, which has therapeutic characteristics to soothe an upset stomach.

Though uncomfortable, soda diarrhea is unlikely to be harmful.