kids-on-drugs As news of a new Gallup poll reveals that nearly two-thirds of Americans say they avoid soda in their diet, we are also reading about new research that reveals sugary drinks may damage children’s brains so badly that it affects their memory.
While the troubling news continues for soda consumption, one key component of soda raises a lot of concern: Phosphoric acid.
What is it exactly? Phosphoric acid is a colorless, odorless solid or a thick, clear liquid. It is used in rustproofing metals, fertilizers, detergents, foods, beverages, and water treatment. Read that again.
“It is used in rustproofing metals, fertilizers, detergents, foods, beverages, and water treatment.”
It makes perfect sense to include a chemical in a beverage that is also used for preventing rust, fertilizing yards and cleaning detergents. Why not. Right?
Phosphoric acid is also on hazardous substance lists because of regulation by OSHA, DOT, EPA and several others. It’s so hazardous in fact, that the CDC gives this first aid advice for phosphoric acid:
“Swallow – Seek medical attention immediately”
Phosphoric acid can interfere with the body’s ability to use calcium, leading to osteoporosis or softening of the teeth and bones. Michael Murray ND and Joseph Pizzorno ND, two well known natural physicians, offer these insights into the damage of soda to growing children:
“Soft drinks have long been suspected of leading to lower calcium levels and higher phosphate levels in the blood. When phosphate levels are high and calcium levels are low, calcium is pulled out of the bones. The phosphate content of soft drinks like Coca -Cola and Pepsi is very high, and they contain virtually no calcium.”
“Soft drink consumption in children poses a significant risk factor for impaired calcification of growing bones.”
“Of the fifty-seven children who had low blood calcium levels, thirty-eight (66.7 percent) drank more than four bottles (12 to 16 ounces per bottle) of soft drinks per week, but only forty-eight (28 percent) of the 171 children with normal serum calcium levels consumed as much soft drink S These results more than support the contention that soft drink consumption leads to lower calcium levels in children. This situation that ultimately leads to poor bone mineralization, which explains the greater risk of broken bones in children who consume soft drinks.”
Parents, if your child is hooked on the carbonated thrill of soda, here’s a great alternative that they will have a hard time hating!
Celia’s Sensational Summer Spritzer:
– Fill a glass with ice – Fill 1/3 full with your child’s favorite juice (100% juice, of course!) – Top it off with natural sparkling water and enjoy!
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