The query regarding whether consuming “lean” contributes to weight gain is rooted in the beverage’s composition. “Lean,” typically a mixture of prescription-strength cough syrup containing codeine or promethazine, a soft drink (often soda), and sometimes hard candy, presents multiple avenues for potential weight increase. The syrups themselves often contain sugar, and the almost ubiquitous soda mixer further elevates the sugar content. For example, a single serving can easily contain several hundred calories, primarily from simple sugars.
Understanding the implications extends beyond merely counting calories. Regular ingestion of high-sugar beverages has been linked to various metabolic disturbances, including insulin resistance and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, the sedative effects of the opioids and antihistamines present in the cough syrup can lead to decreased physical activity, further contributing to potential weight gain. The historical context reveals that the drink emerged within certain subcultures and has since become associated with health risks beyond its potential impact on body weight, encompassing addiction and respiratory depression.
