Look at this ad I found online – it’s hysterical!
It says that studies show that “babies who start drinking soda during that early formative period have a much higher chance of gaining acceptance and “fitting in” during those awkward pre-teen and teen years.”
Of course it’s absurd to think of our babies drinking bottles and bottles of soda yet so many American families have soda as a staple in the home.
When my husband and I were first married 12 years ago, I think we went out to eat and I ordered a soda. That seemed innocent enough. But not to James.
He gave me a lecture about how soda is terrible for you, sugar laden, expensive, and like a drug. Guess I wouldn’t be ordering soda in the future!
“No soda” is our standard because of James’ fierce opposition to Coke, Pepsi, 7-Up and everything in between. No soda in the house. No soda when we go out to eat. Being frugal really helps in this endeavor. When I’m out and there’s a free drink included in the meal, I admit I’ve had a soda (root beer is my favorite!). But usually after a few sips, I feel nasty and remind myself to skip the soda in the future even if it’s free.
Water is the antidote! It’s healthy and free and really is a key to weight loss. If you’re properly hydrated, you’ll feel fuller and you won’t gain extra calories from whatever you’re drinking. That’s why I wrote today’s chapter “Drink and Grow Rich.”
Does all this sound unreasonable because you love your Diet Coke too much to give it up? Try cutting your soda consumption by 25% a week. Then another 25% a week when you’ve got that down. Baby steps…
Can’t stand the taste of water or do you get tired of it? Read my chapter in 31 Days to a Younger You for a few ideas to liven it up.