COLD DRINKS

Unpacking the Health Risks

- HIMANGSHU RANJAN BHUYAN

In the modern age of convenience, cold drinks have become a staple in the daily routines of millions of people worldwide. Whether it's grabbing a can of soda during lunch, reaching for a sugary energy drink to combat fatigue, or sipping a chilled cola on a hot summer's day, these beverages are often considered a refreshing and harmless indulgence. However, beneath the fizz and the sweet taste lies a darker reality—cold drinks, while enjoyable, carry serious health risks that can lead to long-term consequences for individuals and society at large. As the consumption of cold drinks rises globally, it's critical to unpack the health risks they pose and understand the serious problems that may be brewing within each bottle or can.

The most glaring concern with cold drinks is their extraordinarily high sugar content. Most sodas and sugary beverages are loaded with added sugars, typically in the form of high-fructose corn syrup or sucrose, making them calorie-dense without offering any real nutritional value. A typical 12-ounce can of soda contains anywhere between 35 to 40 grams of sugar, equating to about 9 to 10 teaspoons of sugar per serving. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that adults limit their daily intake of added sugars to about 25 grams (or 6 teaspoons) to maintain health, meaning just one can of soda can far exceed the suggested daily limit.