There are many reasons for parents to stop allowing your children to consuming soda, below are ten good reasons why.
1 - No Nutrient Value
Soda contains zero nutrients and is very high in sugar and calories and likely a contributor to childhood obesity.
2 - Suppresses Appetite
Acting as an appetite suppressant children are less likely to consume nourishing foods, soda drinkers are less likely to get the recommended levels of vitamin A, calcium, magnesium and other important nutrients.
3 - Depletes Calcium
Phosphorous is a common ingredient in sodas and can deplete calcium, girls who consume soda are more prone to broken bones. Doctors are becoming increasingly concerned about the impact of the consumption of carbonated beverages on teenaged girls.
4 - Tooth Decay
Studies have shown a direct link between tooth decay and soda drinking being a the cause of cavities. The acids in soda etch off tooth enamel and the effect can be seen in as little as 20 minutes. Dentists have reported complete loss of the protective tooth enamel in teenaged boys and girls who habitually consume soda.
5 - Caffeine
Caffeine is known to create a physical dependence and upset the normal neurochemistry in the developing brains of children. It stimulates the adrenal glands without providing the nourishment it needs. In large amounts caffeine can lead to adrenal exhaustion especially in children. Cola contains 35 to 38 milligrams of caffeine, Mountain Dew, Mello Yello, Jolt, Sun Dip, Barq’s Root Beer and Sunkist soda all contain caffeine. Clear sodas like Sprite, 7 Up, Ginger Ale as well as many other brands of Root Beer are caffeine free.
6 - Health Issues
Drinking soda everyday can lead to blood sugar disorders also diabetes.
7 - Aspartame
Artificial sweeteners such as Aspartame used in diet soda is a potent brain toxin and endocrine disruptor.
8 - Citric Acid
The citric acid found in sodas may contain MSG, another potent brain toxin. Artificial flavors used for sodas also contain traces of MSG.
9 - Digestive Disruption
Drinking soda on a regular basis can upset the acid/ alkaline balance of the stomach creating a continuous acid environment. This prolonged acidic environment can lead to inflammation of the stomach duodenal lining and be quite painful
10 - Dehydration
Soda acts as a diuretic much like coffee, tea and alcohol and can inhibit proper digestive function.
Parents can set a good example by limiting or eliminating their own consumption of sugary or diet sodas for the good health of all family members. Contact our pediatric dentists in Vancouver if you have any concerns about your child's teeth.
