Final answer:
Yes, sodas/pops should be illegal until the age of 18 to protect the health of young individuals. High sugar content, dental health, and mental health are all reasons why restricting access to sodas can be beneficial.
Step-by-step explanation:
Yes, sodas/pops should be illegal until the age of 18 to protect the health of young individuals.
- High sugar content: Sugary drinks like sodas are a major contributor to obesity and diabetes among young people. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey reports that about 50 percent of Americans consume sugary drinks daily.
- Dental health: Sugary beverages are a leading cause of tooth decay and cavities in children and teenagers. Excess consumption of sugary soft drinks has been scientifically proven to increase the risk for dental caries.
- Mental health: Excessive consumption of sugary drinks is associated with mental health issues, including depression and anxiety.
Limiting access to sodas/pops until the age of 18 can help reduce the health risks associated with excessive sugar consumption and promote healthier habits.