Health3 min(s) read
Published 16:09 01 Jun 2026 GMT
As interest in health and wellness continues to grow, experts are increasingly reminding people that what they drink can be just as important as what they eat.
Cardiac surgeon Dr. Jeremy London recently sparked discussion after revealing four things he says he "absolutely avoids," including one popular beverage he dramatically described as "liquid death."
In a social media video, Dr. London, who is board-certified in vascular, thoracic, and general surgery, listed smoking as his biggest health concern.
"The single worst thing you can do to your body," he said.
He also warned about alcohol, telling followers it is "toxic" to every cell in the body, though he acknowledged that everyone makes their own choices regarding drinking.
However, it wasn't alcohol that earned his harshest criticism.
Instead, Dr. London singled out soft drinks, offering a blunt assessment: "Just don't drink them, period, done."
His comments quickly attracted attention online, and he later expanded on his reasoning during an interview with TODAY. While admitting he may have used dramatic language to make a point, he maintained that sugary fizzy drinks are a major problem.
"I think that soft drinks are just a scourge in our society, and so I was really trying to get some attention," he said.
He added: "Obviously, high-calorie soft drinks and ingesting a lot of calories that people don't realise they're getting with the sugar-based soft drinks is a big no-no."
Research has repeatedly linked soft drink consumption to negative health outcomes. A meta-analysis published by the National Library of Medicine reviewed 88 studies and found "clear associations of soft drink intake with increased energy intake and body weight."
The study also found that people who consume more soft drinks tend to have lower intakes of milk, calcium, and other important nutrients, while facing a greater risk of health conditions such as diabetes.
Dental experts have also raised concerns about fizzy drinks. According to Colgate, their high sugar and acid content can "soften tooth enamel, which can contribute to cavities."
Dr. London's final warning may be difficult for many people to hear. Alongside smoking, alcohol and soft drinks, he also recommends limiting refined carbohydrates such as bread and pasta.
"Avoid the refined flours and wheats," he advised.
He further argued that diet plays a much larger role in weight management than exercise alone.
"I guarantee you can out-eat any exercise you did."
According to Dr. London, around 80% of weight control comes down to diet, with the remaining 20% linked to physical activity.
While many people may not be ready to give up soft drinks, bread or pasta, the surgeon's comments have reignited debate about how everyday dietary choices can affect long-term health.
