Soda is a HUGE reason why people gain weight...especially sugared sodas but also unsugared. Why? They wash your food through your stomach making you hungrier sooner! I had RNY gastric bypass surgery...and am forbidden 1) soda period and 2) cannot eat AND drink. I just can't. Sometimes maybe a sip or two if something is dry. But generally my tummy is too small now for both. I lost nearly 100# over the last 16 months.