Are Cola-Based Sodas Bad for Your Health?
by Sky Taylor, Diet Bites
 Many pop-style beverages contain phosphoric acid which adds flavor and that familiar tangy taste to some of our most beloved brews, such as the tang in ginger ale and the acidic bite to citrus drinks. Phosphoric acid is more commonly found in cola-based beverages.
My dear little mother was recently alarmed when she saw a story in the news where a study indicated that the phosphoric acid found in cola could be harmful to one's health. To ease her worry I pointed out that she was in her mid-70's, healthy and wise - and that she had been drinking colas since she could remember. Now I'm not saying that phosphoric acid is an additive that we should seek out and guzzle-down, but there are so many studies out there that we can all go mad sitting and worrying about our health, which in turn can be more damaging than the controversial subject of the study. It's the old stress factor.
As to health studies - many questions exist in the consumption of phosphoric acid and its health effects on the body and although a number of studies have been conducted to gain a conclusive answer, there is a wide chasm of disagreement. While some studies indicate that phosphoric acid contributes to lower bone density, others indicate that a lower intake of phosphoric acid may contribute to low bone density. Then there are studies that rest right in the middle which indicate that phosphoric acid consumption found in beverages presents little-to-no effect on the body.
It's also important to keep in mind that not all studies are created equal. In order for a study to hold merit, it's important for the 'guinea pigs' to be as close in physical make-up as possible. Age, gender, ethnic origin, muscle mass and so forth are just a few factors which can influence the end results.
The two best beverages for the body are of course water and milk, with the grade of milk triggering yet another controversy. Whole, low fat or fat free? As to commercial juices, most consist of water, so if you're gunning for juice the best option might be a home juicer or a bit of label reading on that next trip to the market.
In conclusion, while the controversy on phosphoric acid and its health effects on the body rage onward, it's important to know the ingredients that are contained in our beverages. Until the issue of phosphoric acid is resolved, when indulging - do so in moderation and don't forget about that all-important water and milk.
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