[Triple Word Score]

Well, besides what their acid does to teeth, the high phosphorus content of some soft drinks can throw off your magnesium balance, since it leaches magnesium from your tissues, which can result in illness--so it depends on what diet sodas you drink and how much you're drinking. I'd count it as part of my water intake too, but I'm cautious about artificial sweeteners. I didn't use them at all till I was done having all my babies, just to be very cautious, and I'm sparing with them now.

I knew a man in his 70s who drank absolutely nothing but coffee and still had an active life--when he died it was of an accident. My religion forbids it and I don't like it, so I have two reasons not to drink coffee, but it seems there is some positive chemistry going on with coffee, as with tea. Caffeine? I wouldn't be surprised if a total ban on caffeine in this country didn't result in a huge upswing in motor vehicle accidents. It probably saves many lives. But it's addictive and probably has mild negative health

Kidney stones are supposed to be just as bad as childbirth--you must be tough.

[Hank Rearden]

Kidney stones are supposed to be just as bad as childbirth--you must be tough.

I know a couple of women who've experienced both, and would prefer childbirth. Kidney stones can be, ummmmm, unpleasant.

I'm just grateful for ESWL, the ultrasonic stone-smashing machines. Have had it 4-5 times; no cutting required and quick recovery. Just as expensive as the old-fashioned cut 'n sew, though. Unbelievably expensive, as is everything in a hospital these days.