Indulging in a refreshing bottle of fizzy drink on a scorching afternoon seems like the perfect remedy for thirst, doesn’t it? However, as companies rake in profits from the popularity of carbonated beverages, they often leave a trail of addiction in their wake.
Soft drinks they call them. Haha
Did You Know?
Soda poses significant health risks due to its high sugar content, which can contribute to weight gain, diabetes, and cardiovascular issues.?
So, opting for healthier alternatives to soda is advisable to mitigate these risks.
What Research Has Shown
Research has consistently linked soft drinks to the development of type 2 diabetes. Studies have shown that individuals who consume one or more sugary cans per day face a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared to those who consume such drinks infrequently.
According to the National Action on Sugar Reduction (NASR), Nigeria ranks as the fourth highest consumer of soft drinks globally. In 2019, the country ranked seventh in per capita consumption of carbonated soft drinks, with an average of 498 ounce servings consumed annually.
This excessive consumption, totaling 38.7 million liters of soft drinks sold yearly, contributes to the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular diseases.
Nigerians spend approximately $4.5 million annually on diabetes treatment alone, reflecting the significant burden of NCDs. NCDs are responsible for 29% of deaths in Nigeria.
Recent data estimates suggest that approximately six million adult Nigerians live with diabetes. However, experts believe this figure may underestimate the true prevalence, as an estimated two-thirds of diabetes cases in the country remain undiagnosed.
This lack of diagnosis exacerbates the burden of diabetes complications and contributes to increased mortality rates associated with the disease.
In Nigeria, carbonated drinks have seamlessly integrated into the cultural fabric, offering a myriad of flavors and a quick respite from the heat or a companion to meals. Yet, the transient pleasure they provide, particularly when consumed excessively and frequently, comes with its own set of health concerns.
Continuous consumption of carbonated drinks can lead to addiction, as warned by health specialists who advocate for organic alternatives like water for better health outcomes.
A clinical nutritionist and senior lecturer, department of human nutrition and dietetics, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Dr Oluyemisi Folashire maintained that there were risks associated with carbonated drinks, urging individuals to opt for water as a healthier choice.
While fizzy drinks can be enjoyed as an occasional treat, making them a staple in one’s diet poses significant health risks that could be easily avoided.
Cultivating habits of mindful eating and drinking, including planned meals and beverages, can contribute to a culture of healthy living.
Why ‘Soft’ Drinks Are Bad For Your Health
1. Excessive Sugar Content: Soft drinks are notorious for their high sugar content, contributing to excessive calorie intake and increasing the risk of weight gain and obesity. Consuming too much sugar can also lead to dental issues such as cavities and tooth decay.
2. Empty Calories: Soft drinks provide little to no nutritional value. They are often referred to as providing “empty calories” because they contain calories from sugar but lack essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Regular consumption of soft drinks can lead to nutrient deficiencies and poor overall health.
3. Increased Risk of Chronic Diseases: Research has linked the regular consumption of soft drinks to an increased risk of developing chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome.
The high sugar content and low nutritional value of soft drinks contribute to these health risks.
4. Bone Health: Soft drinks contain phosphoric acid, which can interfere with calcium absorption and contribute to weakened bones over time. Regular consumption of soft drinks, especially among adolescents and young adults whose bones are still developing, may increase the risk of osteoporosis and fractures later in life.
5. Dehydration: Despite being marketed as thirst-quenching beverages, soft drinks can actually contribute to dehydration. The caffeine and sugar content in many soft drinks can act as diuretics, causing increased urination and fluid loss. Inadequate hydration can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, and decreased cognitive function.
Take Caution!
It’s essential to exercise caution and moderation when it comes to consuming carbonated drinks to safeguard one’s health and well-being in the long term.
Written by Victoria Owoyemi
