If you’re one of those who drink sodas regularly, it may be time to stop. Though sodas may look tempting due to their sparkling and sweet taste, there are many health risks that are connected with drinking sodas. Sodas can cause serious health issues as you grow older and can be especially dangerous for your elderly loved ones. Here is why seniors and soda are not a good mix!
There Are No Nutritional Benefits of Soda
As we know, sugar and calories are the only ingredients in soda. Almost all sodas have no nutritional benefit at all, including diet sodas, which are reduced in calories and sugar. On the other hand, healthy beverages such as green tea or homemade smoothies, contain vitamins and minerals that your human body can utilize. Drinking water alone can replenish your body without adding calories to your diet.
They Contribute to Obesity and Diabetes
A sweetener known as high-fructose corn syrup is abundant in soda. Due to its high sugar content and effects on the body’s hormones, the unhealthy consumption of soda can lead to the development of type 2 diabetes. As for diet sodas, there have been studies that state artificial sweeteners found in diet sodas have been related to increased appetite, difficulties losing weight, and problems sustaining weight loss.
Soda Damages Your Teeth
When you drink soda, the sugar in it will stain your teeth, forming acid when it reacts with the bacteria in your mouth. Carbonation produces carbolic acid in both diet and regular soda. These acids erode tooth enamel, resulting in cavities and decay.
They Can Weaken Your Bones
Phosphorus and caffeine, which are included in most sodas, are thought to contribute to osteoporosis. Experts are particularly concerned that people are substituting soda for milk or other healthful beverages, depleting their bones of calcium.
They Can Harm Your Major Organs
Increased soft drink consumption has been associated with chronic kidney disease, the development of metabolic syndrome which is a combination of symptoms that contribute to an increased risk of heart disease, and fatty liver, a chronic liver disease.
Healthy Drinks Alternatives
Aside from sodas, there are many other healthy drink alternatives that you could consume.
- Milk: This is an essential and healthy drink as it contains vitamins that can be beneficial to your health and bones.
- Tea: It doesn’t matter which type of tea as all of them have high levels of antioxidants which are good in protecting your body from damage.
- Fruit Juice: While fruit juices are better than sodas, it’s better not to drink fruit juices straight as it contains a lot of sugar. Instead, you should opt to drink juice-flavored seltzer or just eat a piece of the whole fruit. Either way, you will still be getting the fiber.
Keep Healthy at Terrabella Windsor Lake
Looking for ways you can stay healthy and active while aging? Why not choose senior living at Terrabella Windsor Lake! Here, we provide you with resort-style amenities and exclusive senior living programs where you can enjoy nutritious and scrumptious chef-prepared meals as well as planned fitness programs. To learn more about our senior living options, contact us today!
