Added sugar in our foods is a contributor to obesity and sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) are the largest source of added sugars in the diet of U.S. youth. Consuming these beverages increases the intake of calories—a factor potentially contributing to obesity among youth nationwide. According to the CDC, “among high school students, nearly two thirds consumed any combination of these beverages on a daily basis, and almost one third of students consumed any combination of these beverages two or more times per day.”

Many people are aware that soda contains sugar, but sports drinks, juice, and numerous other beverages do too. Between 2000 and 2004, the purchase of sports drinks in schools increased by 70 percent. As students head back to school this fall, it is important to keep these figures in mind. While being physically active, water can meet hydration needs – without the added calories. To support youth in making healthy beverage choices, families, schools, and communities can:

• Reduce youths’ access to SSBs to decrease consumption.
• Make alternatives easily accessible. Encourage youth to drink water and low-fat or fat-free milk, or limited amounts of 100 percent fruit juice.
• Parents can be a role model for the family by choosing healthy, low-calorie beverages.
• Educate students about nutrition and offer only healthy food and beverage choices to ensure a consistent message on healthy lifestyle choices.

Want to know more?

Rethink Your Drink: http://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/healthy_eating/drinks.html

Sugar‐Sweetened Beverages Fact Sheet: Sports Drinks: http://www.yaleruddcenter.org/resources/upload/docs/what/policy/SSB...

SSBs and Obesity: http://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpa/nutrition/pdf/r2p_sweetend_beverage...