For all the Soda Drinkers (Part I)

Soda is hardly a beverage that would be considered “healthy” but should it be considered unhealthy. Diet soda may be considered a healthy alternative to regular soda for those who have diabetes or blood sugar issues and/or need to reduce calorie intake or reduced sodium brands that are better for those with high blood pressure. In the U.S., soda is the most popular beverage around. How could you go wrong with soda? It is a simple product that is mostly comprised of carbonated water, sugar and flavor.
You may find it interesting that soda was consumed 2000 years ago to improve health. The original ingredients were much different, than today. The original soda was natural mineral water that came from springs. In the 1800’s, soda water was created from “imitation” mineral water (sodium bicarbonate mixed with acid) and marketed by pharmacies as “medicinal”. One pharmacist tried adding 2 stimulants to soda, coca leaves and cola nuts and this was the birth of Coca-cola .
Whether you enjoy Coke, Pepsi or any other conventional soda, you should know the changes that were made to mass produce a quality cost effective product may make you more vulnerable to needing medicine than to providing health benefits. Today, the main ingredient mineral water is carbon dioxide, about 90% of the beverage. 5-10% of its contents is sugar or non-calorie sweetener, acid (lowers blood PH) and other additives like gums, pectins, caffeine, flavors, colors, and preservatives like BHA.
If you learn nothing else from me, this blog, my book (The Stubborn Fat Fax) or anything else I say, understand that calories are not the gold standard in determining your weight loss or your health. Check out part II as I use soda as an example to learn why all your attention should NOT be placed on calories alone. I will provide a detailed ingredient list of the items that affect you.