Refreshing or Risky? The Hidden Dangers Lurking in Your Favorite Summer Drinks

When summer hits, we see ads everywhere featuring Bollywood stars promoting colas and packaged fruit juices. These drinks look refreshing, but have you ever thought about what they do to your health? With rising cases of diabetes and other lifestyle diseases in India, it's important to understand how these sugary drinks impact our well-being.

Why Are Colas and Packaged Juices Harmful?

Most colas and packaged juices are loaded with sugar, preservatives, and artificial additives that can harm your body.

• Too Much Sugar: One glass of cola or packaged juice has about five tablespoons of sugar! This can spike blood sugar levels and increase the risk of diabetes.
• Unhealthy Additives: These drinks often contain harmful preservatives and artificial colors, which can cause hyperactivity, migraines, and even asthma. The high acidity in colas can also damage your teeth.
• Cancer Risk: Some studies suggest that drinking sugary beverages regularly may increase the risk of cancer, especially breast cancer.

The Truth About Packaged Juice

The packaged juice industry in India is growing fast, with brands promoting their products as “natural” and “healthy.” But in reality, many of these juices contain added sugars and artificial flavors. Always check labels—words like "fruit drink" or "fruit cocktail" usually mean it’s not 100% juice!

Healthier Alternatives for Summer

Instead of sugary drinks, try these:
✅ Eat fresh fruits—they have natural sugars and fiber.
✅ Drink water, coconut water, or homemade lemon water.
✅ Read labels carefully before buying packaged drinks.

Final Thoughts

Colas and packaged fruit juices may seem like the perfect summer drink, but they come with serious health risks. In a country where diabetes is on the rise, making better choices isn’t just about personal health—it’s about a healthier future for everyone.

So next time you feel thirsty, skip the sugary drinks and go for something natural instead!

Dr Manohar K N

MD, DNB, MNAMS,  
Triple FRCP (Edinburgh, Glasgow & London), 
FEAC - Fellow of Euro-Asian Academy of Cardiology 
Fellow of RSSDI, Fellow Diabetes India
www.drmanoharkn.com/