Soft Drinks

Soft Drinks

      
I was amazed, when attending holiday parties, how many people offered soft drinks, and even more amazed at how many people were drinking them. Aside from enormous amounts of sugar or high fructose corn syrup, or worse, artificial sweeteners, and other chemicals, most soft drinks contain phosphoric acid. This can throw off the calcium to phosphorus ratio in the blood making the body think there is not enough calcium in the body, so it 'borrows' calcium from the bones, to be distributed, by the blood, to the rest of the body. Think Robin Hood, swiping from a source that has more to take care of places in need. 
       
There are studies showing a correlation between soft drink consumption and bone density depletion. Calcium is also necessary to relax muscles, and for emotional relaxation, during the day and when trying to sleep. A very occasional soft drink isn't going to kill anyone, but regular consumption can lead to any number of health problems. 
      
Alternative to soft drinks, that most people really enjoy, include soft drinks made with carbonated water and fruit juice sweetened, sparkling water, and sparkling (fruit juice sweetened) fruit juice. I use a soda maker to make my own sparkling water, which also eliminates the waste of bottles, and the resources used for distribution. 
    
So read labels and avoid soft drinks, made with phosphoric acid, for strong bones and teeth. 

                                                               Health & Happiness,
                                                                       Nancy Burton, L.Ac.
                                                                              534 Washington St.   Ashland, OR   97520
                                                                              For Appointments Call:    541-646-0134