Carbonated soft drinks, known as sodas, pops, or soda pop, constitute a huge part of the world-wide beverage market.
History of Soda
Soda drinks started appearing in the late 19th century, starting out as patent medicines, then with addition of carbonation they became popular drinks at soda fountains.
Diet Soda
Today, soda comes in many flavors and forms. It is most often sold in a bottle or can, and for almost every brand of soda there is a corresponding "diet" version made with artificial sweeteners. Non-diet sodas are usually sweetened with high fructose corn syrup.
Soda and Health
Since soda is high is sugars and calories, and has few minerals or vitamins, most studies have shown high soda intake has a positive correlation with obesity, diabetes, tooth decay and various other health problems such as kidney disease. Ingredients found in some sodas also have cancer-causing properties.
