You are what you drink
The phrase "You are what you eat" is adapted from an 1826 book by a French foodie titled "The Physiology of Taste." And while it may be true, the author missed another noteworthy truth: You are what you drink.
Two new studies show how important it is to drink plenty of water and skip soft drinks entirely. (You already know you should only drink alcohol with others and in moderation or not at all).
The first, published in JAMA Psychiatry, reveals that soft drinks alter the health of your gut biome and the more sodas you drink, the more likely you are to be diagnosed with major depressive disorder. The researchers think that's because sodas increase the amount of a gut bacteria called Eggerthella, which negatively affects the gut-brain conversation. (They talk a lot!)
The second explains how dehydration can fuel anxiety and increase your risk of heart disease, diabetes and depression. The research, published in the Journal of Applied Physiology, says that folks who drink less than 50 ounces of water per day have an amped-up cortisol response to stress that's more than 50% higher than in people who drink that much water daily. Excess cortisol causes mood shifts, dysregulates glucose control and increases the risk of cardiovascular problems. I recommend filtered black coffee, water and tea.
For more information on how your lifestyle choices can impact your emotions, check out "YOU: The Owner's Manual, revised edition." For info on slashing your risk of heart disease and diabetes, check out "The Great Age Reboot."
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@4YOUngevity.com.
(c)2023 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2025 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
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