7 Important Ways Soda May Affect Your Health — And What to Drink Instead

can add up without necessarily reducing their appetite for other foods.

Over time, consistently consuming more energy than the body needs may contribute to weight gain.

Research has repeatedly associated higher consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages with an increased risk of weight gain and obesity.

This is particularly relevant for children and teenagers, whose eating and drinking habits are still developing.

2. Blood Sugar Changes and Type 2 Diabetes Risk

Regular soda contains rapidly absorbed sugars.

After drinking a sugary beverage, glucose enters the bloodstream and blood sugar levels rise. The body responds by releasing insulin, which helps move glucose into cells.