While sodas may have a sweet taste and a jolt of caffeine, they are not the healthiest option to quench your thirst. Along with chips and other processed snacks, soda is one of the biggest contributors to long-term weight gain. If you are struggling with weight gain, sodas are one of the first beverages you should cut from your diet.
Obesity
Obesity, defined by the Mayo Clinic as having an excess of body fat, is a problem throughout the United States. Unfortunately, it is not just a cosmetic problem, but it is also a health problem. Obesity contributes to conditions like high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke and cancer. While some factors, like genetics and medication, may contribute to obesity, an unhealthy diet and lack of exercise can cause weight gain.
Soda's Link
You gain weight when you take in more calories than you burn. Soda contributes to overconsumption of calories because it is high in calories due to added sugars, but offers little nutritional value. According to the American Heart Association, added sugars should be consumed in small amounts daily; however, soda is easy to drink and less satisfying than solid calories, so you may not realize how many calories and sugar you are getting in each glass.
Metabolic Syndrome
Sodas can also be a significant factor in your risk of developing metabolic syndrome. The daily consumption of empty calories from sugar in soda, along with a sedentary lifestyle, can lead to weight gain, obesity, and potentially the metabolic syndrome -- which is characterized by symptoms including excess body fat percentage, elevated cholesterol and blood pressure, weight gain and high insulin. According to the Mayo Clinic, the presence of the metabolic syndrome can be a significant indicator of your risk for heart disease, stroke and similar major health conditions.
Alternative Drinks
Instead of drinking soda and other beverages with added sugar, opt for lower-calorie, more natural drinks. Try drinking milk or 100 percent juice -- without additional sugar -- both of which are healthier even though they have small amounts of natural sugar. Another good substitute is sparkling water, which is carbonated like soda but without the calories. In addition, do not be deceived into drinking diet sodas, which can also be harmful to your health. According to the Mayo Clinic, diet soda may increase your desire for sugar and lower your resistance to bad food choices.
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