Sipping On Sugar

"Nutrition" Facts about a 20 fluid ounce bottle of Dr. Pepper

Soda can be purchased just about anywhere on campus.

Whether students are in class or at the food court, they can easily be spotted casually drinking soda. Some even drink it on a regular basis. What many students are unaware of is the long-term damage they are doing to their body if they continually drink soda.

Beverages such as Coca-Cola, Pepsi, Dr. Pepper, Sprite and Sunkist are loaded with added sugars. According to the American Heart Association, the recommended amount of added sugar per day for the average adult diet is between 25-37.5 grams. A 20 fluid ounce bottle of Dr. Pepper contains 64 grams of sugar, so one bottle of soda can be enough to put an individual way over their recommended limit. 

This serves as a problem because sodas are such a mass market in our society. “People come here to buy soda and sweet tea more than anything else,” said Adrian Martinez, a second year film major, who works at the USU game center/concession stand.

One of the many soda vending machines located on campus. 

There is always encouragement to upgrade to a combo meal.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has linked sugary drinks, such as those mentioned earlier, to "poor diet quality, weight gain, obesity and ,in adults, type 2 diabetes." This is a frightening thought, considering all the different soda machines set up around school for our convenience. In addition to fast-food franchises advocating for their customers to upgrade to a meal or combo, which comes with a side order (french fries) and a “soft drink” (Coca-Cola). However, none of the outcomes linked to sugary drinks have to become reality for anyone who gives up soda cold turkey or at least starts cutting back every now and again, and eventually finds something to fill the void. An excellent substitute for soda is water. Although it may not be as sweet, it contains many good sources for the body including fluoride which is good for your teeth.

Every little step to achieving optimal health makes a difference. The first step is always the hardest, but once you get the train is moving, it cannot easily be stopped.