I gave my daughter Coca-Cola for the first time in her life the other day.

 

She is eight years old.

 

Her response? “Oh my God that’s disgusting, it tastes like those washing-up sweets (purple disk like sweets that to us taste like washing up liquid) and a pint of sugar!”

“I never want that again”

Dad’s mission accomplished. 

How I did this was that at home and when we go out to eat her choices of drink have been plain water, carbonated water, Kombucha, freshly squeezed fruit juice, whole milk drinks or at a birthday party the least offending drink.

She’s loved all of those drinks and they are tasty and fun.

Now anything like Coca-Cola or Fanta tastes like a chemical shit storm to her. Which they are.

Whether you like it or not, your brain and gut gets not only accustomed to particular drinks but also addicted. 

There has been a back-and-forth about artificial sweeteners and other chemicals in drinks for well over a decade now. 

The most recent popular finding is about the slushie drinks.

Recent advisories against giving slushie drinks to children have sparked a broader conversation about the health implications of such treats.

Beyond the immediate concerns for our youth, it’s imperative to recognize that these issues extend to all of us.

The crux of the matter lies in the ingredients—particularly glycerol and artificial sweeteners—used to craft these icy indulgences. 

Slushie drinks often contain glycerol, a sugar alcohol that maintains their semi-frozen consistency.

While glycerol is generally deemed safe, its effects can be pronounced in children due to their lower body weight.

Recent studies have highlighted cases where children experienced symptoms like decreased consciousness (a huge problem in humanity right now and I wonder why, is it the food?) and low blood sugar after consuming glycerol-laden slushies.

These incidents have led health authorities to recommend that children under four avoid such drinks, and those between five and ten limit their intake.   

I say avoid them completely.

Beyond glycerol, many slushies and similar products rely on artificial sweeteners to deliver sweetness without the calories.

However, emerging research suggests that these substitutes may not be the benign sugar alternatives we once thought.

Some studies have linked artificial sweeteners to an increased risk of stroke, heart disease, and metabolic disorders.

For instance, a comprehensive study found that high consumption of artificial sweeteners was associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases. 

These revelations underscore a fundamental principle: our bodies thrive on whole, unprocessed foods and beverages.

The allure of convenience has led to the proliferation of products laden with additives that our systems are ill-equipped to handle over time.

By prioritising species-appropriate nutrition—foods that are as close to their natural state as possible—we not only support our children’s health but also our own longevity.

As we navigate a landscape replete with processed options, it’s crucial to remain vigilant about what we consume.

This means scrutinizing labels, staying informed about food additives, and making conscious choices that align with our well-being.

By doing so, we can foster a culture that values nourishment over convenience, ensuring healthier futures for ourselves and the generations to come.

Your coach,

Rupert Hambly