Soda works like a slow poison when consumed in large amount. It is harmful, especially for children. It harms them physically, emotionally and mentally. Hence, kids should be kept away from soft drinks.

Here are some harmful effects of soda drinks.

Zero nutritional value: Soft drinks contain no nutritional value and kills the kids' appetite. So they miss out on eating nourishing food.

Childhood obesity: Aerated drinks are high in calories and sugar content. Children, who consume soda drinks regularly are more likely to be obese than other children. Even choosing a diet soda to avoid sugar won’t prevent it.

Early diabetes: Obesity has a high risk factor of diabetes. Also, starting to drink sugar early and regularly can lead to blood sugar disorders, including diabetes.

Harm young brains: According to studies, citric acid and artificial flavours in soft drinks contain potent brain toxin that can harm the kid’s mental development. Caffeine in soda drinks also upsets the normal balance of neuro-chemistry in developing brains of children.

Softens bones: Soda is said to deplete calcium in bones because of presence of phosphorus in it. Hence, regular intake weakens the bones.

Bad behaviour: Children who drink soda tend to be more aggressive, withdrawn and are distracted. The presence of caffeine, sugar and artificial flavors and colours affects the mental ability to focus.

Harmful for teeth: The sugar content in soda drinks causes cavities and the acid content erodes tooth enamel. Complete loss of the enamel on the frontal teeth in teenaged boys and girls who are habitual soda drinkers are reported by dentists.

Hits digestion: Study shows that regular soda intake upsets acid-alkaline balance of stomach. It can lead to irritable bowel syndrome, acidity and inflammation of stomach lining which can be quite painful.

Now, replace soft drinks with homemade fresh fruit juices and milk shakes, which are nutritious and fun for the kids. However, bearing in mind the sugar content in some fruit juices and milk shakes, more water and plain milk are the best options. With the right drinks, give your child a strong and healthy life.