Health reasons to stop drinking soda

Health is wealth. We need to deploy every employable means to keep us healthy. Here are some of the scientifically proven reasons to stop taking soda:

1. Soda increases your blood pressure.

A study in March, 2011 has linked soda consumption to higher blood pressure.

1. Soda destroys your teeth.

In case your dentist hadn't told you, between the sugar and the acidity, pop is bad for the teeth

1. It makes you fat.

Calories from drinks including soda make up over 20% of the total daily calories consumed by Americans, according to a 2004 article in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine (as cited by WebMD).

1. It may lead to diabetes.

Non-diet soft drinks contribute to the onset of type 2 diabetes. Even if you drink diet, you may not be in the clear (see the study published by the American Heart Association discussed below).

1. It may lead to heart disease.

According to a study published by the American Heart Association, "Drinking as little as one can of soda a day — regular or diet — is associated with a 48% increased risk of metabolic syndrome, a key predecessor of heart disease and diabetes."

1. Soda consumption is linked to osteoporosis.

While researchers aren't sure of the precise reason, people who drink pop are more likely to have osteoporosis.

1. Drinking cola can increase your risk of kidney stones.

A study published in Epidemiology found that "Drinking 2 or more colas per day was associated with increased risk of chronic kidney disease."

1. Soda can cause heartburn.

It shouldn't surprise you that highly acidic sodas can lead to heartburn.

1. It's linked with liver problems.

A study found that people with liver problems are also more likely to drink soda.

1. Your soda likely either contains aspartame or high fructose corn syrup.

If you drink diet soda, your pop has some sort of artificial sweetener. If you drink full-calorie soda, chances are it has high fructose corn syrup. There are long debates about these ingredients and studies are not entirely conclusive, but both ingredients are artificial and are likely not good for you.