How to cook soda pop

Once soda pop was the exception rather than the rule when it came to choosing a beverage. Now, it is virtually the default beverage for adults and children alike. In fact, some studies indicate that soda pop may provide up to 20 percent of teens’ calories each day. In addition, up to 20 percent of toddlers drink soda pop.

This increased consumption is unfortunate because soda pop is devoid of nutrition. Instead, it is high in calories and, typically, sugar. One can of regular, nondiet soda pop has between 150 and 200 calories. It also has between 9 and 11 teaspoons of sugar and 30 to 70 milligrams of caffeine. These values are only part of the issue, however.

By choosing soda pop, adults and children alike are missing out on the nutrients provided by beverages such as juice and milk. In fact, many physicians and nutritionists are concerned that today’s teens may be placing themselves at high risk of osteoporosis, a bone-thinning disease, as they grow older because they are not getting enough calcium during their adolescent and early adult years. Phosphates in soda pop may cause the body to eliminate calcium during urination. There are also concerns about soda pop’s effect on tooth decay because of its high sugar content and some of the acidic chemicals within it.

Preparation tips and serving suggestions

Soda pop has little if any role in a healthful diet. If you do decide to drink it, limit it as much as possible. Selecting caffeine-free and diet soda pop can eliminate some of the nutritional hazards of these beverages, but not all of them. When eating out, encourage children to order milk. At home, make sure there’s a selection of beverages available, including chilled water, that will help family members make more healthful choices.