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Are you a one, two or six soda-a-day drinker? Would you feel lost in a world where this sugary-sweet beverage did not exist? If so, then you may be doing yourself more harm than good.
According to a study recently published in Diabetologia, a Journal of the EASD (European Association for the Study of Diabetes), drinking just one can of soda a day can raise your risk of type 2 diabetes by as much as 22%. Other bits of research have also linked regular consumption of this carbonated beverage to physical conditions such as headaches, fatigue and muscle soreness. Not to mention, it wares away the enamel on your teeth, increasing the likelihood of cavities.
And, if you choose diet soda over the full-calorie option, you’re not in any better shape. Contrary to the fact that it’s intended to keep your daily caloric intake low, studies have proven time and time again that people who regularly consume low or no-calorie soda actually weigh more than people who don’t. Why?
The answer to that remains slightly unclear. Some health experts suggest that the artificial sweeteners increase appetite as they spike your blood sugar and cause it to crash, leaving you with cravings for more sugary sweetness. Others suggest that people who drink diet soda eat more calories at their meals as they feel that they can since they consume calorie free beverages. Either way, the result is a bigger, and more deadly, waistline.
The best thing you can do for your health then is eliminate soda completely. Try to stick to other drink options that won’t hurt you, such as coffee, tea and, the best drink of all…plain old water.
If drinking regular water feels too boring to you, add some fruit slices or cucumber to it for a beverage that satisfies but won’t hurt your health and wellness. It will add some color and flavor to the glass so you won’t feel like you’re losing out.
It can be tough to break the soda habit, but it is worth it. Your body (and your teeth) will thank you when you do.
