Most people are already aware that soda pop is not a health food and is probably not a good drink choice. Now, there is more proof that it isn’t – as a recent report by Food MythBusters has shown some disturbing health effects of this bubbly and sugary drink that might have you off soda for good.

Food MythBusters is a consumer friendly organization that reports and exposes the truth, good or bad, about our food industry.

Asthma:

Disorders linked to soda include asthma, compliments of the sodium benzoate contained in the drink, which is used as a preservative to add shelf life. Although it is not proven a cause, it is said to contribute to the disease and its symptoms.

A French medical journal recorded a case of asthma in a young girl who was in and out of the hospital monthly due to asthma attacks. After 12 months of avoiding benzoates in foods, drinks and medications, she became asthma-free.

Type 2 Diabetes

The MythBusters report claims: The risk of developing type 2 diabetes increases dramatically — 80 percent — for soda sippers. The effects of soda to the now common disease, Type 2 diabetes, is common knowledge, especially for those who listen to their doctors.

According to Health line: Type 2 Diabetes is a common and increasingly prevalent illness that is largely preventable. Nearly 26 million people in the United States have diabetes.

Heart Disease

Heart disease is the number one killer in America, and drinking soda can contribute to obesity, which leads to heart disease. Seventy percent of cardiovascular disease is related to obesity. High fructose corn syrup is not only in our beverages, but also in the biggest percentage of processed foods, and it may be poisoning our health. It has been associated with heightening the risk of metabolic syndrome. According to experts, obesity and heart disease go hand in hand.

Obesity

Soda is one of the main causes of the obesity crisis in America, obviously, people love their soda. But, with obesity on the rise not only in adults but also in children, it is becoming an expensive medical crisis, at 21 percent of U.S. healthcare costs.

And, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), obesity contributes to heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, certain cancers, hypertension, stroke, liver and gallbladder disease, sleep apnea and repertory problems, osteoarthritis and gynecological problems.

Soda is not the sole culprit for many diseases and ailments, but it sure would be a good idea to understand that it is dangerous to human health.

Image via Wikimedia Commons