The single biggest source of calories [7%] in the American diet is from carbonated soft drinks. A carbonated beverage is one that releases carbon dioxide in normal atmospheric pressure.
Side Effects of Consuming Carbonated Sodas
Artificial carbonation was first introduced in 1767 and after 1830, the sweetened and flavored lemon-lime, grape and orange carbonated drinks became very popular. Today, heavily sweetened, carbonated drinks or sodas are among the most popular beverages in the world.
Sugar and High Fructose Corn Syrup
Consumption of carbonated drinks peaked in 1998 when consumption was 56.1 gallons per person per year. Soft drinks provide large amounts of sugar [mostly high fructose corn syrup] to many individuals diets. The empty calories of soft drinks contribute to health problems, particularly obesity and tooth decay [cavities]. A study from Harvard shows that soft drinks may be responsible for the doubling of obesity in children over the last 15 years.
Acidity
Carbonated soft drinks not only have a high sugar content that contributes to tooth decay but also have a very acidic pH that can erode tooth enamel.
Caffeine
Some of these drinks, especially the colas have as much caffeine as a cup of coffee and can disrupt children’s or adult’s sleep and leave them feeling tired during the day.
Gastric Bloating
These carbonated soft drinks are also related to gastric bloating, which can trigger reflux. Studies show the consumption of one can of soda a day corresponds to 53.5 minutes of elevated acid levels in the stomach.
Kick The Soda Habit
The best approach is to cut down or avoid carbonated drinks.
Many schools have removed the soft drink vending machines in their halls and cafeterias. If not, it’s best to drink through a straw so the soda is swallowed from the back of the mouth and does not come in contact with the teeth causing decay. Substitute with water or healthy alternatives to soda. Check out some recipes below.
Healthy Alternative Soda Recipes:
20 Healthy Alternatives to Soda Recipes (The Food Renegade)
9 Soda Alternatives (Everydayhealth.com)
