Before you crack open that next soda, we need to have a talk...
The Negative Effects of Sugary Drinks
According to the NCBI, drinking soda and other sugary beverages results in eating more calories. Another way to look at it is that if you drink that cold can of bubbly
goodness, your brain is going to tell you to eat more. In fact, there are numerous studies showing a link between sugar filled
drinks and type 2 diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and many other illnesses.
In contrast, drinking an equally refreshing 8oz glass of water will lessen your appetite because our brains tend to tell us we’re hungry when we are actually thirsty. Drinking plenty of water also aids in weight loss, decreases bloating, helps rid our systems of waste and toxins, and allows our bodies to be as healthy as possible.
What can you do
to decrease the
pop and increase
the water?
Don’t keep pop around to tempt you. Everyone splurges, and as long as you don’t have any health risks that prevent you, having a soda once in a while is ok. However, if its in the fridge it will probably be harder to say no. So…leave it at the grocery store.
Keep a case of water around instead, or invest in a water filter (Let’s face it, water from the tap isn’t always that appealing, depending on where you live). Water is also much more cost effective than alternative beverages, and much better for you.
Set a timer, Fitbit, or simply pay attention to the clock to make sure you’re getting your 8-8oz servings of water a day. One woman kept a bowl of 8 pretzels on her desk, eating one with each bottle of water throughout the day to help her remember. Do what works for you.
Dress it up! Add fresh fruit like raspberries, kiwi, cucumber, or traditional lemon slices. A little flavor and color can go a long way to keep things from becoming boring.
Remember....
Juice and sports beverages are in the “sugary beverage” category! And also that some artificial sweeteners can also affect the brain in the same way as sugar.
Some folks just don't know how they are going to live without their soda. But don't be disheartened! Most find that once they totally give up the pop, they rarely crave it at all. This is an important step towards a healthier body.