Dry skin happens to many people. The condition may be attributed to numerous causes including the weather, frequent washing and overexposure to the sun. Additionally, skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema can contribute to itchy, flaky patches. What many people don’t realize is that the soda they drink every day can also contribute to the discomfort of dry skin.
Research suggesting that drinking soda can have detrimental impacts on health is nothing new. The high calorie and sugar content in most colas and similar drinks cause people to gain weight. Moreover, these acidic beverages are harmful to tooth enamel. Many people deal with discoloration of teeth and cavities that can be at least partially attributed to drinking soda.
Just Because Soda Has Water Does Not Make It Hydrating
However, some experts have suggested that consuming soda may also contribute to dry, itchy patches of skin. No one is suggesting that a sip of soda is going to strip essential moisture from a person’s skin, but the basic reality is that by drinking soda in favor of water, many people are missing out on the hydration they need to support healthy skin.
When thirsty, it’s not too unusual for a lot of people to reach for a soda instead of a glass of water. Some people don’t like the taste of water, preferring something with more flavor. Others think water is just boring and look for something with a little more fizz. Whatever their reasons, choosing soda in place of water means that a large number of people are habitually dehydrated. This is bad news for all of the body’s organs, including the skin.
Soda Can Clog Skin Pores And Lead To Unhealthy Complexion
Medical research has discovered that like other sugary food and drinks, soda may also contribute to the clogging of the skin’s pores. The skin is an important component when it comes to flushing toxins from the body. When the pores are clogged, the toxins cannot escape. Even worse, the natural moisturizers that are produced by the skin cannot be adequately absorbed when the pores are clogged. This all adds up to poorly hydrated skin and those pesky flaky patches that can be so troublesome.
Many sodas also contain a heavy dose of caffeine. This substance can give the drinker a temporary burst of energy, but it’s also a diuretic. This translates to a more frequent need to urinate, which only contributes to the person’s dehydrated state.
What A Hard Habit To Break!
Despite the link between soda and dry skin, many people are still reluctant to give up the habit. In a sense, they are “hooked” on sugary drinks and the energy they provide. Transitioning toward drinking more water and less soda can be a gradual thing. In fact, a slow, progressive change is essential to creating a lasting habit. Since quitting sodas cold turkey is unlikely to work, start by switching out one or two sodas a day for a glass of water instead. Those people who dislike the taste, or lack thereof, of water might consider looking for ways to jazz up the flavor. It makes sense to use a squirt of lemon or lime. Alternatively, sprigs of mint and fresh berries can make for healthy and flavorful additions. Using commercially produced water additives may also be an option, but proceed with caution. Some of these additives are just an alternative form of sugar.
Gradually, soda will become more and more of an occasional thing. Many people who were habitual consumers of sugary drinks will actually start to develop a taste for water and come to prefer it over other beverages. With a new drinking habit and a good skin care routine, dry skin can become a thing of the past.
