A team of researchers from Northwest Minzu University in China endeavored to explore the impact of carbonated beverages like Coca-Cola and Pepsi on fertility by conducting a study for 15 days. The research, which was conducted on mice, revealed that consumption of Coca-Cola and Pepsi could lead to an increase in testicle size and testosterone production.
The team of scientists found that the male hormone increased while the size of the testes enlarged, contrary to earlier studies, which showed that drinking soda might have harmful effects on reproductive functions, such as reducing sperm count.
The researchers divided the mice into two groups, one given only water, and the remaining test groups consumed varying levels of Coca-Cola and Pepsi over the study period. The scientists closely monitored the mice through blood tests and also recorded the weight and diameter of the testis.
The mice that consumed the carbonated drinks experienced a significant increase in testes size, and the results were published in the scientific journal Acta Endocrinol. The study authors wrote, "The outcome demonstrated a high dose of Pepsi or Coca-Cola could promote testis growth and development," further adding that "The concentrations of serum testosterone in all mice were enhanced after the Pepsi-Cola and Coca-Cola treatment."
The study concluded that the consumption of Coca-Cola and Pepsi could improve testosterone secretion and promote testis development. It also suggested that these findings could aid in comprehending the effects of carbonated beverages and their mechanism on development and reproductive functions in humans, and benefit in preventing prostate dysfunction and cancer.
Despite the results, the researchers emphasized that their findings contradict previous studies. For instance, one survey conducted on 2,500 men showed that drinking a one-litre carbonated beverage every day could reduce sperm quantity by 30%. Additionally, another study indicated that sugared soda was associated with lower total, mature, and fertilized oocytes and top-quality embryos after ovarian stimulation.
Finally, a different study found that excessive consumption of coffee or caffeine could increase testosterone production.