Do We Need Warnings on Advertisements for Soda Pop?

We all know that soda isn't the most healthy of beverage choices, but do we need to warn people about what they are drinking?

According to the Associated Press on Yahoo News, San Francisco is considering the idea of implementing mandatory warnings on advertisements for soda on billboards, walls, and the sides of cabs and buses.

Soda, of course, has been linked to tooth decay and obesity. Plus, on-going evidence that points to the dangers of sugar in general. So, should we be warning people of these dangers?

I would have to say this. We know that excessive candy, for example can lead to cavities. We know foods like donuts, cookies, and pasta can contribute to weight gain --which ultimately could lead to ailments such as heart disease and diabetes - which lead to death. When was the last time you saw a health warning on a package of Double Stuff Oreos? Or a disclaimer on an Olive Garden TV commercial informing consumers of the potential hazards of consuming large amounts of pasta?

It seems like maybe  we just need to use a little of our God-given common sense when it comes to these matters.

Warnings that were implemented on cigarette advertising and packaging decades ago may seem to be a similar issue, but to me that seems to be something entirely different.

Do we just need to do a better job of educating parents on the hazards of sugars and additives? Could warnings on advertising be a part of that education process?

People know the dangers of smoking, should we just let them smoke without heaping guilt and warning upon them? We are know the risks involved with not wearing a seat belt. Should we just let people make their own choices, take the risks, and deal with the consequences? Can we just let people drink their soda and not make it a major health issue? Is soda pop killing America?