Do you often drink soda? Soda consists mostly of empty sugar calories. One can of soda exceeds the American Heart Association’s recommended daily limit for sugar. Soda was ranked lowest among all beverage categories for health and nutritional value. Sugar in liquid forms, such as soda, is particularly unhealthy because our bodies do not seem to recognize the calories as much as when they are in solid form; this can lead to overeating. Sugar can also impair arterial function. Evidence from PET scans suggests brain activity changes from the overconsumption of sugar may parallel that of drug addiction.
Cola appears to raise cholesterol levels, and Coca-Cola is very low in antioxidants. The caramel coloring used in many sodas has been linked to cancer, a finding which has led to changes in soft drink formulation in California. Colas also contain phosphate additives, which appear to damage blood vessels, accelerate the aging process, and contribute to osteoporosis. Gum arabic, found in some sodas, is harmless, but sodium benzoate, also found in some sodas, is harmful. And high fructose corn syrup may be contaminated with mercury. The carbonated beverage, devoid of any nutritional value, can lead to medical issues such as obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes.
Scientists discovered BVO, a preservative, and flame-retardant for plastic, in citrus sodas like Mountain Dew. The substance can cause nerve disorders and memory loss.
Here are 5 reasons why you should stop drinking these sweetened drinks-
1. High Sugar Content
One 12-ounce can of soda contains close to 50 grams of added sugar that counts 13 teaspoons. And, this exceeds the daily limit of 9 teaspoons of sugar for men and 6 for women. Therefore, an increased level of sugar consumption can lead to increased chances of becoming diabetic.
Sugar
2. Bone Health
Owing to the presence of phosphoric acid in soda, the soda habit can take a toll on your bones. Soda consumption can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb calcium and can lead to conditions such as osteoporosis, cavities, and bone softening.
Bone Health
3. Causes Sleep Disorders
Soft drinks contain caffeine that affects our nervous system and alters mood and behavior. Also, it prevents drowsiness by blocking the hormones and sleep inducers making you stay awake for long.
Sleeping Disorder
4. Corrodes Teeth
Tooth decay is one of the major effects of carbonated drinks on the body. Soda contains added ingredients that are acidogenic and carcinogenic and thus causes corrosion of enamel from teeth.
Tooth Decay
5. Causes Weight Gain
Soda contains many flavor enhancers full of sodium, artificial acids, sweeteners, and other additives that contain hidden calories leading to weight gain over time.
Weight Gain
It’s no secret, healthy people do not drink ANY kind of soda, regular or diet. The single greatest step you could take today would be to remove soda from your diet. .By swapping soda out for a low sugar alternative, you can not only reduce your sugar intake but by making the right choices, you can also add many beneficial antioxidants to your diet.