Imagine this: you're at a party, chatting with some friends, and someone brings out cups of Cola. You think, "Great, I love Cola!" but as you reach for one, you realize they're not the regular kind; they’re the “Zero Calorie” version, made with artificial sweeteners. Now you're stuck with a choice: either suck it up and chug that saccharine-flavored drink or abstain and be the party pooper.

It's time to put an end to the use of artificial sweeteners in soft drinks.

Now, I know what you're thinking. "But artificial sweeteners are calorie-free! They're perfect for soft drinks!" Sure, that may be true, but what about taste? Soft drinks are supposed to be fun and delicious, not a science experiment that has gone wrong.

And let's not forget about the potential health risks associated with consuming artificial sweeteners. According to a study by the American Medical Association, consuming artificial sweeteners can lead to weight gain, metabolic disorders, and type 2 diabetes. Do we want to risk our health for a soft drink? A recent study published in the Indian Journal of Pharmacology, "Artificial sweeteners as a sugar substitute: Are they safe?" by Arun Sharma, states that research has suggested that artificial sweeteners may be associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, as well as other health concerns.

Some may argue, however, that using real sugar instead of artificial sweeteners would also lead to weight gain and an increased risk of diabetes. However, the key difference is that with real sugar, you know exactly what you're consuming and in what quantities. Artificial sweeteners are often used in excess, leading to overconsumption and the potential health risks mentioned earlier. Plus, using real sugar in moderation can be part of a balanced diet.

But it's not just about taste and health, it's about the principle of it. Soft drinks are supposed to be a guilty pleasure, not a guilt trip.

So, let's make a change, let's normalize buying drinks with real sugar, and let's enjoy them without any guilt.

차정우 강남포스트 학생기자  webmaster@ignnews.kr

<저작권자 © 강남포스트, 무단 전재 및 재배포 금지>