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Why Are Soft Drinks Bad for You?

Soft drinks are available everywhere: at the supermarket, at the gas station, in restaurants and in vending machines. With easy access comes overconsumption and potential health problems.

  1. Sugar

    • According to Sugarstacks.com, one can of Coca-Cola contains about 40 g of sugar. The processed sugar in these soft drinks causes blood sugar to spike and then crash, leading to feelings of anxiety and low energy. Processed, refined sugar contains no nutrients and is considered empty calories. This can cause weight gain and a depletion of nutrients from the body.

    Caffeine

    • Over time, our bodies can become addicted to caffeine and depend on it to feel awake and active. Caffeine in soft drinks provides an immediate energy boost, which can make your heart beat faster than normal and make you feel shaky. Caffeine can also disrupt sleep cycles, keeping you awake when you should be getting rest.

    Phosphates

    • Soft drinks contain phosphates, which deplete calcium levels. There is no calcium in soda; when blood is high in phosphate and low in calcium, the body "borrows" the necessary calcium from the bones. This can lead to osteoporosis in adults and weak bones in children.

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