Side Effects Of Soft Drinks

Taking soft drinks have become our daily routine without considering the side effects of cold drinks. Carbonated or soft drinks have become a part of our diet to such an extent that for many, a meal or a snack without a soft drink is unthinkable. Although soft drinks may provide instant refreshment, they are very harmful to our bodies.

A carbonated drink is nothing more than a toxic brew of colouring agents and chemicals with no nutritive value. A regular bottle contains an equivalent of 11 teaspoons of sugar and excessive consumption can lead to increased triglyceride (fat) formation and decreased glucose tolerance, either of which may cause diabetes. A regular can of a soft drink contains 45 milligrams of caffeine and can lead to a dependence on the substance. These drinks have a pH of 3,4 (acidic), which is strong enough to dissolve your teeth and intestinal linings. For habitual drinkers, the risk of bone fractures increases by three to four times and in the long run may even cause osteoporosis. Probably the most disturbing fact about soft drinks is that the zing, which makes them so appealing, comes from a combination of phosphoric acid and an anti-freeze compound, ethylene glycol (a poison).

Carbonated drinks are aerated with carbon dioxide—the same substance which is the waste product of our respiratory process and would otherwise cause suffocation if left in the lungs.

Soft drinks can also be used for other tasks such as cleaning toilet bowls, loosening rusted bolts or to get rid of corrosion on battery terminals. This highlights the true poisonous natural of all such drinks.

Considering all the harmful effects of soft drinks, it only makes sense to switch over to healthier substitutes such as water, fresh juices, flavoured milk, milk shakes, lassi, nimbu-pani or green tea. Considering the side effects of soft drinks, it is better to take natural drinks rather artificial ones.

In Pakistan or India most soft drinks are Pepsi, Coca Cola, Apple etc. Side effects of Coca Cola Or Pepsi are equally harmful as of other cold drinks.

The writer is a medical practitioner.