There is a buzz around that carbonated drinks are harmful to health. However, it is not entirely true or 100% bad. There are several pros and cons of carbonated drinks. Each is a valid point and needs to be given consideration individually without any prejudice. While carbonation may not be good for teeth health, it may not be entirely harmful.
Carbonation is the process of dissolving carbon dioxide into water or any aqueous solution. The process causes the fizzing of the carbonated water or the drink to which it has been added. The quality of the beverages depends upon the amount of carbon dioxide that is dissolved in the beverage. There was a perception that carbonated drinks are healthy as they help digestion. However, this is not entirely true.
Carbonated drinks may be artificial as well as natural. Mineral water would be an example of natural soft drinks. It was believed to have qualities to cure many diseases. Drinking natural or artificial mineral water was considered healthy. Earlier American pharmacists who sold mineral water added herbs like birch bark, dandelion, fruit extracts to make unflavored carbonated drinks.
The major cause of opposition to carbonated drinks is the amount of sweeteners that often exist in these drinks. Often high fructose corn syrup is used in these drinks as sweetener as it costs less. However HFCS is criticized for promoting diabetes, hypertension, etc. Most carbonated drinks lack nutrients like vitamins, minerals, fiber, proteins etc. Over consumption of soft drinks further harms the system, as there is reduced consumption of foods with nutritional value. A major ill effect of consumption of carbonated drinks with sweeteners is the increase in obesity among adolescents. These combined with high calorie foods are being seen as a major factor causing weight gain. Moreover with higher consumption of such foods, children tend to avoid nutritious foods that provide them with calcium and vitamins.
Dental decay due to the acidic nature of soft drinks is also another factor that needs to be remembered. The high concentration of glucose, fructose, sucrose causes oral bacteria fermentation and production of acids which in turn leads to dissolution of tooth enamel. It helps the dental decay process, thus causing dental caries. Dentist generally advice the use of a straw to drink carbonated soft drink so that the drink does not come in contact with the teeth.
Some studies also suggest that the phosphoric acid in some soft drinks displaces calcium from bones causing lowering of bone density and weakening of bones. However, some experts counter this suggestion with the argument that carbonated drinks have negligible effect on calcium retention. It is the lack of nutrients from the reduced overall healthy diet that causes low calcium levels. Carbonated drinks do not affect calcium levels but caffeinated beverages can definitely have ill effects.
Flavored carbonated water without sweeteners may be a safer option. There are several pros and cons of carbonated drinks. It is for you to choose whether you want to have them or avoid them.
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