Staff Writer
According to NPR
(National Public Radio), the average American drinks around 600 cans of soda
per year. A typical 12 oz. can of soda has up to 40 grams of sugar in it and
contains 140 calories (all of which come from sugar). That’s a lot of sugar and
calories, especially when you take into account that most people have multiple
cans per day. In order to get your sweet fix, substitute your soda for a lower
calorie drink. So instead of downing the fizzy sugar water that America is so
obsessed with, try a healthier option. At the same time, don’t assume “diet” drinks
are better for you. The artificial sweetener they use, “natural” flavors, and
coloring don’t come close to helping you lose weight. In fact, studies have
shown it promotes weight gain because the calories you are missing make it
easier to cheat on your diet and sneak in other snacks. Fruit juice is slightly
healthier, though some juice brands have the same (or even higher)
sugar/calorie content as soda brands. Some exemplary juices would be
pomegranate juice, freshly juiced fruits/vegetables (which are tastier than you
think), and orange juice/apple juice with no sugar added. Try replacing those high-calorie drinks with
healthier options that satiate your sweet tooth but don’t leave you with regret
(and tighter pants), you will be feeling happier and healthier with your
choice.
