Soda

Before I moved on to oils, I wanted to address one more "sugary" issue, and that is SODA. I agree, it is delicious. I used to drink Coke, among other sugary drinks, but the more I learned, the quicker I gave it up. Now typically, I drink water or juice. For some people, it's hard to drink water. It is pretty bland. However, I do not have any problems drinking it. I do keep a glass full and sip on it through out the day and with meals to stay hydrated. I feel that I do have more energy when I stay hydrated. Just something to think about.

OK....now to address the downsides of soda. The first reason I would avoid this stuff is all the sugar and artificial sweeteners used. For further information on that, please refer to my entries on sugar and artificial sweeteners.

Secondly, soda contains phosphoric acid. In layman's terms...it's the fizzy. Phosphoric acid blocks the absorption of calcium and magnesium in your bones. Without these two important minerals, you are more susceptible to osteoporosis, impaired immune system, fatigue, and kidney stones. It weakens your bones. Women seem to be more at risk for osteoporosis. Be careful--ladies!

If you don't like plain water, try squeezing a lemon wedge in it for extra flavor. Do not add those water flavoring packets as they are laden with sugar and artificial sweeteners, as well as dyes for color. You don't need those extra ingredients. It negates why you are drinking water in the first place. Our family has taken various approaches to soda. I gave it up completely. I didn't drink that much in the first place, so it wasn't that difficult. My husband on the other hand is working on it. He has cut back considerably and is continuing to make changes. He has to have his caffine shot in the morning. In order to avoid caffine withdrawl, you have to cut back over time. He does not usually drink it throughout the day. I do not see him giving it up completely, but the less he drinks the better. He keeps a water bottle with him at work.

One more thought...soda is one of the worst drinks you can give to growing children, especially if it is diet. It weakens their bones, which they need to grow. Also see the previous entries for the effects of sugar and artificial sweeteners on growing children.

Next time, I will begin discussing hydrogenated oils. It may take one or two entries to cover that topic. Until then...

For further information see The Maker's Diet, Nourishing Traditions. Also check out Team Chiropractic ( http://www.teamchiro.com/) for other helpful wellness ideas. If you are in the Raleigh area and searching for a chiropractor that takes a different approach, you should definitely pay them a visit. They are a Christian practice that encourages pray and Bible reading as part of your healthcare plan. They close their offices during parts of the day to pray. I know they prayed for me during an especially difficult time in my life. Since moving to SC, I really do miss my monthly visit.