Why Should We Drink More Water Instead Of Pop?

Water is essential for survival. According to MayoClinic.com, you need sufficient amounts for your body to work properly. Supplying your body with enough water will help get rid of toxins and transport nutrients throughout your body. Many diets contain far more soda than water, which can have serious health consequences. Learning the advantages of water and the disadvantages of soda may help you make a healthier decision next time you need to quench your thirst.

Zero Calories

If you drink several sodas every day, you are consuming several hundred calories. Taking in too many calories can lead to weight gain and obesity. Jeannette Bessinger and Tracee Yablon-Brenner note in their book, "Simple Food for Busy Families: The Whole Life Nutrition Approach," that 7 percent of average calorie intake comes from soda. For teenagers, 13 percent of the average caloric intake comes from soda. The average 8 oz. serving of soda is between 100 and 150 calories, while plain water contains zero calories. If you are watching your weight or trying to shed pounds, replacing soda with water will help you cut calories.

Zero Sugar

Plain water contains no sugar, which makes it a nutritious part of your diet. Soda contains a huge amount of sugar. The Harvard School of Public Health notes that an average 8 oz. serving of soda contains between 10 and 12 tsp. of sugar, but many people consume three, four or more servings each day. Cutting your intake of soda and replacing it with water will reduce your intake of sugar and help improve your health.

Hydration

Your body relies on a steady supply of water to stay hydrated. Drinking soda instead of water may not properly hydrate you. According to MayoClinic.com, dehydration occurs when your body does not have adequate water to perform basic functions. Dehydration can lead to a loss of energy and feelings of tiredness. Long-term dehydration can be dangerous for your health, and water is crucial for ensuring that your body gets the hydration it needs to work efficiently. Soda does not have the same hydration abilities because it contains too much sugar and caffeine.

Disease Prevention

The consumption of sugary beverages, such as soda, is linked to an increase in life-threatening medical conditions like heart disease. The Harvard School of Public Health reports that drinking two or more servings of soda each day may result in a 40 percent higher risk of developing heart disease. A diet high in sugar can increase your risk for diabetes. Drinking several sodas a day can more than double your risk of diabetes. Drinking water may help reduce your risk by keeping your blood flowing properly and helping keep your internal systems working well.