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Soft drinks are non-alcoholic water-based flavoured drinks that are optionally sweetened, acidulated, carbonated and which may contain fruit, fruit juice and/or salts. Globally, carbonated soft drinks are third most consumed beverages.
Pakistan is among those countries where soft drink consumption has been increased at an alarming pace especially in young children. Soft drinks are consumed during the peak bone-building years of childhood and adolescence. However the other side of the picture is a bit gloomy.
The question is that how healthful are these beverages, which provide a lot calories, sugars and caffeine but no significant nutritional value? And what happens if you drink a lot of them at a very young age? Soft drink consumption is closely linked with childhood obesity.
The pH level measures the acidity of foods on a scale ranging from 1 (most acidic) to 14 (most weakly acidic, or very basic). Water, with a pH of 7, is neutral. It is a matter of great concern that the pH for soft drinks is 3.4. This acidity is strong enough to dissolve teeth and bones. Scientific studies reveal that 1 to 1.5 liters of soft drinks a day can raise risks of numerous health problems, such as obesity, tooth decay, malnutrition etc.
There is a need to take steps to limit soft drink sales to youngsters. One suggestion is to prohibit sales of soft drinks in schools until after 1.00 pm. By taking a few steps at individual level, we can avert at least a few negative impacts. Use straw to reduce direct contact with teeth. Rinse your mouth with water after drinking aerated drink.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2009

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