Soda is a form of beverage that contains approximately 49 ml of sugar and 150 calories per 12 oz. serving, reports KidsHealth. Sodas are typically nonalcoholic; they contain carbonated water, sweeteners and flavoring agents. Carbonated water is plain water that contains dissolved carbon dioxide particles. Some sodas contain caffeine and certain fruit juices. Diet sodas use sugar substitutes instead of regular sweeteners. Beverages that are high in sugar tend to be high in calories but low in valuable nutrients. Drinking soda causes several side effects.
Tooth Decay
According to KidsHealth, tooth decay is one of the possible side effects of drinking soda. Frequent consumption of sugary items can cause erosion of the enamel, the hard mineralized surface of the tooth. Sugar also promotes bacterial growth, which leads to tooth decay. The acidity of carbonated beverages can also contribute to erosion. Sugary foods and drinks can also cause dental cavities, or caries. Some carbonated drinks like colas may contain phosphoric acid and citric acid, which are both harmful to the enamel. For healthier teeth, consume natural fruit juices, low-fat milk and water, instead of carbonated drinks.
Obesity
Obesity is among the side effects of drinking soda, reports MayoClinic.com. Sugar is one of the major components of carbonated beverages. These drinks use soda to boost flavor, help with preservation and balance acidity. Sugar when taken in small amounts doesn't harm the body, but when taken regularly and at high amounts, it cause unhealthy weight gain and obesity. Extra sugar means extra calories. Sugar can make foods and beverages taste better, which encourages overconsumption.
Diabetes
Increasing the risk for diabetes is one of the consequences of drinking too much soda. According to MedlinePlus, consuming high amounts of sugar from foods and beverages can significantly increase blood glucose levels. Sodas are high in calories and high in sugar. Drinking sugar-free beverages and water rather than sodas can help control blood glucose levels.
Dehydration
According to KidsHealth, drinking too much soda, especially those that contain caffeine, can contribute to dehydration. Caffeine is a diuretic that causes the body to eliminate water by means of urination. Excessive caffeine consumption causes a significant increase in urine volume. High concentrations of sugar, found in sodas, can also draw out water from the kidneys; this is the body's mechanism to expel excess sugar out from the blood.
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