Does carbonation in drinks make it harder to hold your breath?

Question

I do Synchronized Swimming and my coaches have said for a long time that drinking carbonated drinks will make it harder to hold your breath. I know it seems to be true, but is it? And how does it work?

Answer 1

Well, the gas (carbon dioxide) you ingested has to escape somewhere: either through your mouth or butt. Most people burp after they drink a carbonated drink to eliminate the air, so that would naturally make holding your breath more difficult. Also, the increased concentration of CO2 in your blood increases your body's demand for oxygen. This leads to more rapid breathing. Holding your breath in this situation is going against your body's natural responce to CO2.