Soda’s Not So Good for Ya

I did a little science project when I was in 4th grade called “What Types of Soda Have the Worst Effect on Our Teeth?” After the experiment, I realized that if soda could be that bad for our enamel, the hardest and most highly mineralized substance of the body, then it couldn’t be good for our health!

Soda, pop, cola, soft drink — whatever you call it, it is one of the worst beverages that you could be drinking for your health. Sodas contain little to no vitamins or other essential nutrients. What they do contain is caffeine, sugar substitutes, carbonation, and food additives such as artificial coloring, flavoring and preservatives that is the problem. Research has determined that consumption of soda in high quantity, especially by children, is responsible for health problems that include tooth decay, nutritional depletion, obesity, type-2 diabetes, and heart disease.

Skip the soda and go for:

• Water. The vital beverage for good health. Each and every cell needs water to perform its essential functions. If you’re the type that has a hard time with drinking water, like myself, enhance the flavor with a refreshing infusion of basil, mint leaves, and a drop of honey.
• Fruit Juice. To cut back on the sugar content, try watering down your juice by diluting it with three parts filtered water to one part 100% concentrated juice. You will get a subtle sweet taste and the benefit of antioxidants. After a couple of weeks, you will no longer miss the sweetness of sugary concentrated juices.
• Tea. My drink of choice! Black, green, white, and oolong teas all contain antioxidant polyphenols and numerous health benefits. Herbal tea does not have the same antioxidant properties, though it is still a great beverage choice with other health benefits, such as inducing calming and relaxing effects. If tea doesn’t satisfy your sweet tooth, try adding a little honey or cinnamon instead of refined sugar.

Even if I couldn’t convince you otherwise, you should know how soda affects your body so that you can make an informed choice on your own. Drinking soda in moderation is better than nothing!

To read more about What Soft Drinks are Doing to Your Health, check out Ask Mr. Mao.