Beverages Replace Water-
Could Other Beverages Act as a Water Substitute?
Do you find yourself frequently with a soda can close at hand? If so, perhaps a trip to the water dispenser might be in order. Soda not only packs on the pounds but can also be detrimental to your health. With about 9 teaspoons of sugar per serving, soda can lead to gradual weight increase. Moreover, it’s worth noting that high sugar intake can suppress the immune system for up to 12 hours. Choosing diet cola instead? Have you considered the association between artificial sweeteners and brain tumors? Caffeine, present in soda, coffee, and energy drinks, is another worry. It can lead to dehydration, and withdrawal may trigger severe headaches, tremors, and irritability. While an occasional morning boost might not have serious lasting effects, regular consumption will eventually take its toll on the body. The most critical reason to steer clear of fizzy drinks is their impact on mineral levels. Extended use of colas can be harmful, as their acidity, sugars, and artificial components might abbreviate your life span. A single can of soda harbors enough acid to be fatal, if not for our bodies’ neutralizing defenses. Nonetheless, this process depletes essential minerals like calcium from our system, minerals that are meant for other vital functions. It’s worth noting that 32 glasses of water are required to counteract the acid in a single 12 oz. cola. Sports drinks, perceived as a good choice for athletes to restore minerals, should not be consumed casually. Many children are allowed to drink them because of their tasty flavors. Baylor University research on sports drinks revealed a case of an irregular heartbeat in a football player who consumed excessive potassium from these drinks. These beverages also contain sodium, carbohydrates, and calories. Without replenishing minerals lost through sweat during workouts, sports drinks offer no health benefits. Other drinks that are no substitute for water include coffee and tea. There’s been much discussion about coffee drinks being high in fat and low in calories, with some specialty coffees now akin to desserts. Although coffee can serve as a morning stimulant, after a night’s sleep, the body craves hydration, not the dehydration that coffee causes. Need an energy boost? Rehydrate with water and do some stretches or take a walk or jog to get the blood flowing. Understanding the negative impacts of these drinks should underscore the benefits of our irreplaceable natural resource: water!