The shocking amount of time each can of soda is cutting from your lifespan

It’s a tough day for the thousands of people who collectively crack open a soft drink when the clock strikes 3 p.m., because – shock, horror – it turns out they’re not actually that good for you.Your emotional support Coke might be shaving years off your life, according to a study which found you can lose 12 minutes every time you reach for your favorite sweet beverage.Researchers at the University of Michigan compiled a list ranking 5,800 foods based on their effects on longevity, by considering things like additives, fats, calories, and sugar content.They assessed the health impact of one gram of a particular food and then adjusted it to a standard serving size to create a Health Nutritional Index.They found that every hot dog consumed costs a person 36 minutes of “healthy” life.This high risk is due to their preservatives and nitrates, which are compounds added to food that enhance flavour, colour, and texture – and have been linked to certain cancers.They also considered other risk factors like sodium and trans fatty acids found in hot dogs.Sugar-sweetened beverages, such as Coca Cola and Mountain Dew, can shorten life by 12 minutes, bacon by six minutes, and a double cheeseburger trims just under nine minutes.Chicken wings deduct three minutes and 30 seconds, while cured meats, like prosciutto, could cost you 24 minutes.The research also revealed that even a serving of cheese can take over a minute off a healthy lifespan.Thankfully, it’s not all doom and gloom.The study also showed that you can add minutes to your life by consuming healthier foods.For example, a banana was found to contribute 13 and a half minutes to life, a portion of baked salmon, another 16 minutes, and 30 grams of nuts can prolong your life by 26 minutes.By swapping just 10 per cent of daily calories from beef and processed meats for fruits, veggies, legumes, and nuts, you could potentially add an estimated 48 minutes to your life, according to the study.Subscribe...