For many people across the U.S., soda is a staple. People like it for the taste or they depend on it for caffeine. While it’s extremely common, it also has the potential to impact your health negatively.
Increases Risk of Diabetes
Most sodas have very high sugar content. Consumption of sugar is one of the many risk factors for developing type II diabetes. Studies have shown that individuals who drink 1-2 cans of soda a day are at a much higher risk of developing diabetes than those who don’t regularly consume soda.
Many people think that switching to diet soda will help lower their risk, but studies also show that diet soda does not decrease the risk. If you enjoy soda, it’s best to enjoy it sparingly. Daily consumption is detrimental to your health.
Degrades Your Teeth
Soda can have a strong effect on your teeth in several ways. Again, there is a lot of sugar in soda and this sugar can contribute to the development of cavities. Some cavities can simply be drilled away but more severe cavities require intense drilling and fillings to address them. If you cut back on soda, you reduce your risk of cavities.
Soda can also weaken your teeth. The acid in soda can degrade the enamel. Your enamel is the strongest substance in your body, but once it’s gone it’s gone for good. In addition to affecting the health of your teeth, soda can impact the appearance. Drinking a lot of soda can stain your teeth. Stains on your teeth are often unappealing to others.
Leads to Weight Gain
Drinking a lot of soda can put you at risk of gaining more weight which in turn increases your risk of many other chronic conditions. When you drink soda, it doesn’t make you feel full. In fact, you end up wanting more food to satisfy you and this can often lead to overeating. You simply drink a lot of calories and then feel inclined to eat even more. Drinking soda just makes you feel even more hungry.
Soda is a tasty treat, but it should be seen as a treat rather than a daily necessity. It won’t hurt to have soda once in a while, but regular consumption can damage your health. It’s important to try and break the daily habit and embrace healthier alternatives.
Did you enjoy this article? Here’s more to read: How to Take Better Care of Your Body.