Whatever name you call it, pop, fountain drink, soda, Coke, it is just one thing, bad for you! As Americans we drink this stuff by the gallons, more than any other country in the world. Soda is just ounces of empty calories that can cause all sorts of health issues and be as addictive as smoking.

1. It Makes You Fat!

A study done at the University of Texas discovered that soda increases a person’s risk of being overweight by 32.8 percent and drinking diet soda increased that risk by 54.5 percent! So “diet” isn’t always better for you.

2. Empty Calories

Most 20 ounce sodas contain 250 calories but don’t offer any other nutrients or minerals. The two main ingredients are sugar and caffeine.

3. Addiction

Soda contains caffeine, which is a stimulant, and if you stop drinking caffeine suddenly it can cause a myriad of withdrawal symptoms such as headaches, depression, irritability and tremors.

4. Risk of Heart Disease and Diabetes

The American Heart Association’s journal “Circulation” published a study in 2007 that people who drank soda every day were 44 percent more at risk to develop Metabolic Syndrome – a condition that increases the risk of heart disease and diabetes.

5. Bad for the Environment

Soda bottles and cans make up a huge amount of un-recyclable debris in our countries’ landfills, which is not only bad for the environment but ultimately bad for everyone’s health.

So the next time you reach for that soda, pop or Coke, remember these facts and grab some water instead.

How do you think soda manufactures can be more health oriented and environmentally responsible?