

Actually it appears to be the carbonation that increases hunger, thus even sparkling water can do that. Below is just one study but there are several.
Study links drinking carbonated water and weight gain | UCLA Health https://share.google/2IY4mv5lu6VpELD2n
Waiting too long and feeling ashamed has been a problem for me my whole life. I’ve tried to address it with a few of my most cherished relationships and can say I’ve rekindled a few thankfully after literally decades. I’ve spoken about it with many of my friends and family too and found I’m not the only one that feels this way, which is helpful.
If you have a few people you have lost touch with and wish you hadn’t, by all means reach out to them and share how you feel. Might make you a little vulnerable but in my experience it’s worth it.