« Regular » sodas contain the equivalent of approximately 8 sugar lumps per glass. That represents around 200kcal/glass. If you drink more than a few glasses a day, it represents a significant component of your daily dietary intake. However sugar is not the full issue. The alternatives to the high sugar content of regular sodas are the expanding range of 'diet' or 'light' soft drinks. In theory, these have all the benefits of flavor, with none of the drawbacks of the regular soft drinks. But these diet soft drinks contain a cocktail of chemical agents, including acesulfame potassium (E950) and aspartame (E951). There is evidence to suggest that these chemicals can have harmful effects on the body, potentially activating the pancreas and the sugar storage system – all without providing sugar. Over a sustained period, the pancreas can become exhausted, potentially leading to diabetes – with all of the consequences of that illness.

Another chemical found in soft drinks is phosphoric acid, hidden behind the name 'additive E338'. It is an acidity regulator. Some studies have shown that there is the potential for phosphoric acid to reduce bone density over the long term. Besides interfering with kidney function, over the long term the removal of calcium from the bones and teeth is like being dissolved from the inside-out. While our bodies are our temples, they weren't designed to cope with this chemical onslaught.

So ask yourself, what do you really want to drink?

The answer is simple and unsexy: good, plain water, low in mineral content to ensure adequate calcium absorption. Avoid carbonated water because it might lower stomach acidity and overload the intestines. Use good sense, every day: If you really are not in the habit of drinking water, or if you don't like it at all, just add a bit of lime juice, which is excellent for the liver. A lightly, naturally flavoured water goes down very nicely!

Cheers !

> http://www.nutri-challenge.be

The answer should be simple: that half hour is the amount of time you must be energetic and active to stay in good health. Moving doesn't necessarily mean spending hours in the gym – there are countless ways to combine your daily routine, your work and activity. The Hainaut Health Observatory (OSH) offers you a complete package. Here you'll find recommendations by profile, calorie tables by activity, and a whole lot of other tips, suggestions and advice.

> Discover it here

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