Cola is one of the most popular drinks among children and grown ups alike. It is a drink which is commonly found sold at cinemas and other popular hang outs. There are even vending machines that sell these in most workplaces around the world.

After a recent study, doctors have warned that having large amounts of cola everyday can cause muscle problems, irregular heart beat and sometimes even paralysis. Over consumption is said to cause hypokalaemia in some people. This is a condition where the blood potassium level falls below normal. This can result in mild weakness or constipation and even paralysis.

Researchers from the University of Loannina in Greece did this study and have given detailed cases of hypokalaemia in their report. Among the cases was a pregnant woman who was drinking three to seven liters of cola every day which is hard to believe.

It has already been found that drinking soft drinks can result dental problems, demineralization of the bone, development of metabolic syndrome and even diabetes. The researchers involved have advised doctors to look for muscle problems in patients who drink between 2 and 10 liters of cola.

The patients involved in the study had all these problems when they were drinking large amounts of cola but as soon as they stopped drinking cola, they made a quick recovery with the help of potassium supplements.

Cola contains sugar and caffeine which helps to trigger hypokalaemia. Therefore it is important for parents to educate their children about the effects of over consumption of cola and choose healthier drinks like fruit juices. Banana is another natural and rich source of potassium which is healthy and will also help you recover if you have hypokalaemia.

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