by Lokemun Magar

Created on: September 24, 2009   Last Updated: May 07, 2010

How to cut back on soft drink consumption is the cry of many a parent. Soft drink consumption is on the rise despite efforts to promote healthy living. Why are people turning to soft drinks and getting as addicted to them as other commodities such as cigarettes? How do we fight the temptation for a few sips of our favorite soft drink when we are on the go?

You can gradually reduce your soft drink consumption to a manageable level and preserve your modest weight and beautiful teeth instead. These are some ways you can cut back on soft drink consumption gradually and not feel like you are going through soft drink cold turkey.

* Keep the stock of soft drinks in the home to a minimum.

The first is to get rid of the soft drinks in your house. You would probably give yourself the excuse that they are for the eventual house guests. Instead of getting the whole carton, get one bottle then, and keep it where other family members will not find it.

* Reduce the amount consumed gradually.

An alternative is to regulate the amount consumed. For example, instead of a can of soft drink each, have two to share a can. This idea works great when you are having meals at restaurants as well. You may get dirty stares from others, and even be called stingy, but it would be better than having people stare at your toothless gum!

* Replace the soft drink with a healthier choice.

Another way is to substitute your usual soft drink with fresh fruit juice or water at home and limit your soft drink consumption to when you eat out, or vice versa. It works great as you will feel healthier with the soft drink alternative. Some families cut out all drinks during meal time and have fruit or the soft drink after the meal and only when the children finish their food. By the time the meal is over, the children would be busy with playing family games and forget that they are drinking iced water and not soft drinks. Another is to go for a healthier alternative such as ice-blends or fruit and yogurt smoothies that children simply love.

* Dilute the soft drink with ice.

Ice is another great help. Always ask for a full glass of ice to drink the soft drink from. The ice makes the soft drink taste better and of course, as the ice melts, you are actually drinking a mixture of soft drink and water, and you would not need that much soft drink.

* Inculcate the love for water from young.

Build on the habit of reaching out for water instead. Fill up easy-to-reach-for bottles of water for your little ones. When

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