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Information  Take a Hard Line Against Soft Drinks  Children
often switch from drinking milk to drinking soda when they
become preteens or teens. These kids tend to eat fewer fruits
and vegetables, and get less calcium, protein, and vitamins A
and D, because they are drinking less milk. They also take in
more calories. Because one in seven U.S. youths weighs too
much, health professionals are sounding the alarm.  Soft drinks
can't take all the blame for the weight crisis. But kids can
reduce their calorie intake by drinking less soda or drinking
only diet soda.  Although your child's diet won't be ruined if
he drinks soda in modest amounts, it can be hard to stick to
that goal. Children often gulp down a 20-ounce bottle, equal to
2-1/2 servings.  Experts say it may be easier to cut out soft
drinks altogether than to persuade your kids to drink less of
them.  Other concerns:     • Many soft drinks contain phosphoric
acid, which may lead to a loss of calci