If you’re among the many people who crack open a soda can every afternoon, it may be time to rethink that habit. A study from the University of Michigan found that sugar-sweetened beverages, like Coca-Cola and Mountain Dew, can shorten your life by 12 minutes per serving.
The research ranked 5,800 foods based on their effects on longevity, factoring in additives, sugar content, fats, and calories. Hot dogs topped the list as one of the worst offenders, costing 36 minutes of “healthy life” due to harmful preservatives like nitrates. Similarly, processed meats such as bacon and prosciutto take away six and 24 minutes, respectively, while a double cheeseburger trims nearly nine minutes from your lifespan.
But it’s not all bad news—healthy food choices can add time back to your life. The study found that eating a banana contributes 13.5 extra minutes, a serving of baked salmon adds 16 minutes, and 30 grams of nuts can extend life by 26 minutes. Simply swapping 10% of daily calories from processed meats to whole foods—like fruits, vegetables, legumes, and nuts—could add an estimated 48 minutes to your lifespan.
In addition to personal health benefits, researchers emphasized that dietary changes also impact the environment. Reducing consumption of processed and red meats lowers carbon emissions, while plant-based foods support sustainability.
The takeaway? Every food choice counts. While the occasional indulgence won’t hurt, opting for nutrient-dense, whole foods can make a real difference—not just for your health but also for the planet.
