Soda and Its Toxic Ingredients That You Should Know About

Soda is among the first options when it comes to quenching thirst. Although it is easily available, it tastes good and has low prices, carbonated drinks also contain artificial flavoring, caffeine, sweeteners, colorings and many other preservatives.

Soda contains a high level of sugar content, which increases the insulin levels and can lead to high blood pressure, diabetes, heart diseases, high cholesterol and premature aging among others.

But there are several other harmful ingredients that you should know about.

• Phosphoric Acid

This is a key component in sodas as it gives the characteristic strong flavor of the drink and also inhibits the development of bacteria and mold in the soda. Phosphoric acid is harmless when used in limited amounts, but high doses might prevent the body from absorbing calcium, which in time leads to weakened bones and makes teeth softer. Phosphoric acid can also lead to bloating, gas and indigestion.

• High Fructose Corn Syrup

High fructose corn syrup is a replacement for natural sugar, and it is derived from corn. It is easier to use, cheaper and it has a long shelf life. Scientists have discovered that high intake of high fructose corn syrup is the major cause of obesity and the metabolic syndrome (high blood pressure, excess body fat, high blood sugar and abnormal cholesterol level).

Usually, the high fructose corn syrup used in sodas is derived from genetically modified (GM) crops, which affect the immune system, liver and brain health.

• Citric Acid

Citric acid affects the teeth, in particular, damaging the enamel and making them prone to discoloration, cavities, erosion and tooth decay.

According to a new study, a person who consumed 2 liters of soda each day for three years displayed similar tooth erosion as a methamphetamine and cocaine addict.

• Bisphenol-A (BPA)

Bisphenol-A (BPA) is a chemical found in the plastic soda bottles, which eliminates bacteria and prevents rusting. The chemical has adverse effects leading to cardiovascular diseases, early puberty in females and reproductive disorders in males.

• Sodium Benzoate

Also known as E211, Sodium Benzoate is one of the most harmful preservatives used in soft drinks, as well as in salad dressings, pickles, jams, fruit juices and jelly. It prevents molding, but for the human body, it causes an acceleration of cell aging, DNA damage, dizziness, hyperactivity, sleep problems, and lightheadedness.

• Caramel Color

The brown color of the drink is given by caramel coloring, an artificial dye that increases the risk of cancer. This chemical also exacerbates asthma symptoms and increases asthma attacks.

• Caffeine

Caffeine is added in sodas to enhance its sweet taste but also to add a slight bitterness. Excess caffeine has been linked to cardiovascular risk, hypertension, diabetes, fertility inhibitor, insomnia and dehydration (it works as a diuretic).

Try to replace soda with healthier drinks such as smoothies, fresh juices or herbal teas. If you cannot totally eliminate sodas from your diet, at least consume them in moderation. After drinking some soda, swish your mouth with water to dilute the sugar and the acid.