DID YOU KNOW.....
That cola is bad for you. Doesn't matter if you drink diet or regular. It's not the sugar that is the problem. Both types of soda contain phosporous, which can lead to bone loss. Furthermore, Scientists have found that drinking one or more regular or diet colas every day doubles your risk of metabolic syndrome--a cluster of conditions, including high blood pressure, elevated insulin levels, and excess fat around the waist, that increases your chance of heart disease and diabetes. One culprit could be the additive that gives soda its caramel color, which upped the risk of metabolic syndrome in animal studies. Scientists also speculate that soda drinkers regularly expose their tastebuds to natural or artificial sweeteners, conditioning themselves to prefer and crave sweeter foods, which may lead to weight gain, says Vasan S. Ramachandran, MD, a professor of medicine at Boston University School of Medicine and the study's lead researcher. If it's fizz you're after, try sparkling water with a splash of juice.
Better yet, brew a cup of tea. People who drink 5 or more cups of green tea every day have the lowest risk of dying from heart disease and stroke, according to a Japanese study of more than 40,000 people. Other studies show that black tea offers similar benefits. Why? Tea offers a concentrated dose of heart-healthy chemicals called catechins. You really need only 1 or 2 cups of tea daily to start doing your heart some good--just make sure it's a fresh brew. Ready-to-drink teas (the kind you find in the supermarket beverage section) don't offer the same health benefits.
There is a great little teahouse right here in Sugar Land, near my studio. Since I have discovered them I am drinking more tea. Now I am glad to know I will likely live longer as a result! Check them out www.sereniteatearoom.com
Be healthy, get fit, STAY STRONG!
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