Why You Should Consider a New Beverage Instead of Soda

It isn't too late to try something new. Whether you call it soda, pop, soda-pop, or coke (generic), the fizzy, sweet drink has charmed its way into the hearts and minds of many Americans. It is clear that an alarming number of Americans are chugging down soda, regular or diet, cola or 'un-cola,' exclusively, with more and more children and adults experiencing the harmful effects.

The following are a few reasons to consider skipping the soda that may hit you where you live. It has been reported that excessive soda consumption can affect your teeth, your bones, and cause caffeine dependence. However, too many people are willing to brush these caveats off until it is too late. The things we care about in there here-and-now are weight, sleep, and occasionally, diabetes.

Cutting soda from your diet can aid weight loss. The excessive sugar content and empty calories in most soda drinks are a recipe for extra pounds. Much of the time, one may not even realize how much soda is being consumed. The extra-large cup one can purchase at the gas station and other establishments typically pump 64 ounces or more into a person's system and that is an overload. Diet soda sounds better, but don't count on it. There are still questions about the safety of the replacement sweeteners in diet soda, and the calories are still at issue, not to mention that many people are so unsatisfied by the diet beverage that even more consumption is likely.

Forgoing soda in favor of healthier beverages will almost certainly help you sleep. This is true with respect to caffeinated sodas as well as coffee and tea. Caffeine addiction is very real and is undeniable in the individuals around the nation who won't get out of bed until they can take a swig of something caffeinated. Even as the health benefits of coffee and certain teas are being heralded, drinkers are cautioned to drink early in the day so that their sleep isn't affected at night. Keep in mind that for a caffeine addict, non-consumption may adversely affect your sleep until the need is eliminated.

Diabetes is approaching epidemic proportions, at best. Now that children are developing Type II Diabetes, once known as Adult Onset Diabetes, it is time to stand up and listen. The sugar level in the average American diet is gross and has to be cut down to size. One of the easiest things to do, is to simply change what you drink. It won't be easy in the beginning, but it will get easier over time.

Instead of soda this week, try drinking fruit juice -- juice for yourself if possible, since commercial fruit juices are often laden with sugar as well. Homemade smoothies are also a quick and healthy option. The cooler weather necessitates hot cider or warm milk -- consider dairy-free options if cow's milk isn't for you. Most importantly, drink water.

Give it a try. You just may find it will change your life.