10 Reasons to Keep off Soda

10 Reasons to Keep Off Soda

1. Soda contains no nutrients, and is high in calories and sugar. Studies
show a strong link between soda consumption and childhood obesity.

2. Soda suppresses the appetite so kids are less likely to eat nourishing
foods. Soda drinkers are less likely to get the recommended levels of
vitamin A, calcium, and magnesium.

3. Phosphorus, a common ingredient in soda, can deplete bones of calcium.
Girls who drink more soda are more prone to broken bones. Doctors are
becoming concerned about the health impact of carbonated beverage
consumption on teenaged girls.

4. Studies show a direct link between tooth decay and soda. Not only does
the sugar cause cavities, the acids in soda etch off tooth enamel. Acid
can begin to dissolve tooth enamel in only 20 minutes. Dentists are
reporting complete loss of the enamel on the front teeth in teenaged boys
and girls who habitually drink sodas.

5. Caffeine is known to create physical dependence and upsets the normal
balance of neurochemistry in the developing brains of children. Caffeine
stimulates the adrenal gland without providing the nourishment it needs.
In large amounts, caffeine can lead to adrenal exhaustion, especially in
children. Colas contain 35 to 38 milligrams of caffeine per 12-ounce can.
Diet colas often contain a lot more. A can of Pepsi One has about 56
milligrams of caffeine. Mountain Dew, Mello Yellow, Sun Drop, Jolt, Barq's
Root Beer, and Sunkist Orange soda all contain caffeine. Sprite, 7-Up,
ginger ale, and many brands of root beer are caffeine-free.

6. Drinking a lot of soda every day can lead to blood sugar disorders,
including diabetes.

7. Aspartame, used in diet sodas, is a potent brain toxin and endocrine
disrupter.

8. Citric acid, often found in soda, may contain traces of MSG. MSG is
another potent brain toxin. The artificial flavors found in soda may also
contain traces of MSG.

9. Drinking sodas regularly can upset the fragile, acid-alkaline balance
of the stomach, creating a continuous acid environment. This prolonged
acid environment can lead to inflammation of the stomach and duodenal
lining, which can be quite painful.

10. Sodas act as dehydrating diuretics, much like tea, coffee and alcohol,
and can inhibit proper digestive function.