Is Soda Really That Bad for Me, or Is It Okay in Moderation?

Hi, friends, family, foes, fiends, and all you funky folks! Dean Benson here, your trusty “Dean of Rock & Roll” on Sky7music.com, bringing you the midday jams every single day. Today, we’re stepping away from the music for a hot second to talk about something that’s been on my mind—soda. Yep, that fizzy, sugary, oh-so-tempting drink that’s been the subject of countless debates. Is soda really that bad for me, or is it okay in moderation? Let’s break it down, Dean-style—casual, honest, and with a little bit of rock & roll flair.

The Great Soda Debate: What’s the Big Deal?

Alright, let’s start with the basics. Soda has been around for ages, and let’s be real—it’s delicious. There’s something about that cold, fizzy sweetness that hits the spot like nothing else. But over the years, soda has gotten a pretty bad rap. From dentists to dietitians, everyone seems to have something negative to say about it. So, what’s the big deal? Why is soda public enemy number one when it comes to health?

Well, it all comes down to two main culprits: sugar and empty calories. Most sodas are packed with sugar—like, a lot of sugar. A single can of regular soda can contain anywhere from 30 to 40 grams of sugar, which is way more than the daily recommended limit. And let’s not forget about the calories. Soda is basically liquid candy, and those calories add up fast without giving you any real nutritional value.

But here’s the thing: not all sodas are created equal. There’s regular soda, diet soda, and even those fancy artisanal sodas that come in glass bottles and cost way too much. So, let’s break it down and see what’s what.

Regular Soda: The Sugar Bomb

Let’s start with regular soda, the OG of fizzy drinks. As I mentioned earlier, regular soda is loaded with sugar. And not just any sugar—high-fructose corn syrup, which has been linked to all sorts of health issues, from obesity to type 2 diabetes. Drinking too much regular soda can also lead to:

• Weight gain: All those empty calories can quickly add up, leading to extra pounds.
• Tooth decay: Sugar + bacteria in your mouth = a recipe for cavities.
• Increased risk of chronic diseases: Studies have shown that excessive sugar intake is linked to heart disease, liver problems, and more.

So, yeah, regular soda isn’t exactly a health food. But does that mean you can never have it again? Not necessarily. The key here is moderation. If you’re someone who drinks soda every day, cutting back to once a week or just on special occasions can make a big difference. And hey, if you’re going to indulge, why not make it a good one? Treat yourself to a fancy craft soda or an old-school favorite—just don’t make it a daily habit.

iet Soda: The “Healthy” Alternative?

Now, let’s talk about diet soda. It’s been marketed as the healthier alternative to regular soda, with zero calories and no sugar. Sounds great, right? Well, not so fast. While diet soda might save you from the sugar rush, it comes with its own set of concerns.

• Artificial sweeteners: Diet soda is sweetened with stuff like aspartame, sucralose, or stevia. While these sweeteners are FDA-approved, there’s still some debate about their long-term effects on health. Some studies suggest they might mess with your gut bacteria or even increase sugar cravings.
• Tricking your brain: Artificial sweeteners can confuse your brain into thinking you’re consuming sugar, which might lead to overeating later on.
• Potential health risks: Some research has linked diet soda to an increased risk of stroke, heart disease, and even weight gain (ironic, right?).

That said, diet soda isn’t all bad. If you’re trying to cut back on sugar or calories, it can be a helpful stepping stone. Just don’t go overboard—treat it like a “sometimes” drink, not an everyday staple.

What About Fancy Artisanal Sodas?

Alright, let’s talk about those fancy artisanal sodas. You know the ones—they come in glass bottles, have funky flavors like lavender lemonade or ginger hibiscus, and cost about as much as a concert ticket. Are they any better for you?

Well, it depends. Some artisanal sodas use natural ingredients and less sugar than your average can of Coke, which is a plus. But at the end of the day, they’re still soda. They’re still sugary, fizzy, and not exactly a health food. If you’re going to splurge on one of these, think of it as a treat, not a daily drink.

The Bottom Line: Is Soda Okay in Moderation?

So, here’s the deal: soda isn’t great for you, but it’s not the end of the world if you enjoy it every now and then. The key is moderation. If you’re someone who drinks soda every day, cutting back can have a big impact on your health. Try swapping it out for water, sparkling water, or even a homemade fruit-infused drink. And when you do indulge, make it count—savor it, enjoy it, and don’t feel guilty about it.

At the end of the day, life’s all about balance. You don’t have to give up soda completely to be healthy, but you also don’t want to make it a daily habit. Listen to your body, make smart choices, and remember: it’s okay to treat yourself every once in a while.

Alright, funky folks, that’s my take on soda. Whether you’re a die-hard cola fan or a casual sipper, I hope this gave you something to think about. And hey, if you’ve got questions or want to share your own soda stories, hit me up—I’d love to hear from you!

Dean Benson, “The Dean of Rock & Roll,” on Sky7music.com middays every day! Also see me on https://www.deanbensonrocks.com for more articles, and my other "Stuff" at: www.deanbensonrocks.io and www.roadmapmogul.com.