Why can the phosphorous added to soda be detrimental to children's health?

The addition of phosphorus to soda can have negative implications for children's health primarily because it can bind with calcium in the body. This process can lead to calcium being drawn out of developing bones, which is particularly concerning for children whose bones are still growing and mineralizing. Adequate calcium intake is crucial during childhood as it helps in the formation of strong bones. When phosphorus levels are high, it may disrupt the delicate balance of calcium and phosphorus in the body, potentially leading to weaker bone density and increasing the risk of fractures or other skeletal issues later in life.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the primary health risks associated with the phosphorus in soda. For instance, while soda has high sugar content, the specific health concern in this context is not primarily increased sugar levels. Additionally, phosphorus intake does not directly lead to dehydration, nor is it a direct cause of unhealthy weight gain; rather, it’s the overall consumption of soda that can contribute to those issues.