Rethinking All Sodas

Do you or people you care about drink diet or regular soda?   Studies from Harvard, Tufts Universities and other research validate the harm this beverage can do to the body.  Here are just a few reason to reconsider reaching for a soda to satisfy you thirst.

Nearly all diet sodas contain a chemical called sodium benzoate or potassium benzoate. These additives are used as mold prohibitors and can potentially damage the DNA in our mitochondria.  Also, this preservative has been linked to hives, asthma and other allergic conditions. If you consume diet soda and have allergies, consider an alternative beverage as a trial and see how you feel.

A study from Harvard linked diet soda to a decline in kidney function.

Soda cans are lined with a endocrine disrupter called BPA.  BPA has been associated with everything from heart disease to reproductive problems.

The caramel coloring is linked to cancer.  The process of caramelization is achieved by reacting sugars with ammonia and sulfates. This reaction forms compounds that in mice and rats have caused lung, liver and thyroid cancer.  

As if these reason aren’t compelling enough,  please know that several sodas a day deplete mineral levels resulting in lower bone density. Soda changes your metabolism making weight loss harder, the acid wears away dental enamel and drinking even one soda a day may increase your risk for heart disease and metabolic syndrome.

If you enjoy your beverages carbonated and would like to try giving up soda, buy carbonated water in a glass bottle (to avoid BPA) and add fresh squeezed lemon or lime juice or fresh strawberries, its refreshing! 

Another consideration, purchase a Soda Stream and make your own carbonated beverages.