Monday, August 6, 2012

Staying Hydrated: Water vs Soda

It’s a hot day, so you grab a soda to cool down. But wait, is the sugary soft drink really going to help you stay cool?

Soft drinks, unless otherwise indicated, contain caffeine. In the past, experts claimed that caffeine was a diuretic, causing more frequent urination and therefore could cause dehydration. More recent studies have found that in moderate amounts, caffeine has only mild diuretic effects, much like water. However, soda also contains large amounts of sugar and other artificial ingredients that can dehydrate the body. These ingredients drastically raise blood sugar levels and the body must use massive amounts of water to bring them down.

Water makes up more than two thirds of your body weight. As little as a 2% drop in your body’s water supply can trigger symptoms of dehydration: fuzzy short-term memory, trouble with basic math, difficulty focusing on tasks, and daytime fatigue.

Water is necessary for your body to function properly. It carries nutrients to cells, flushes out organs, and ensures proper kidney functions. It is your best bet for staying hydrated on a hot day because it’s cheap and contains no calories. 


Check out the Infographic below for more information:



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