Downsize Those Sugary Drinks!

By Dr. Madelyn Fernstrom

It’s official – Americans are drinking way too many sugary drinks. New results from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) have documented some scary findings when it comes to consumption of sugary drinks. These include fruit drinks, sodas, energy drinks, sports drinks, and sweetened bottled waters. Surprising to me, this group does not include 100% fruit juice, sweetened teas, or flavored milks, which means that the consumption reported here is likely a very low estimate.

About half of the US population consumes a sugary drink daily. And with all of the focus on trying to get soda machines out of the schools, you might be surprised to know that less than 5% of these drinks were purchased at schools. Most sources were from home (store purchase). On average (meaning many people consume a lot more, some less) men consume nearly 200 calories daily, with women drinking about half that amount, 100 calories.

To me, the scary part of this trend, is that it’s only getting to get worse, with the ability to purchase super-sized bottles and cans of these drinks, for a very low price. Yes, companies are selling down-sized single servings of sodas – about 7 ounces and 100 calories – that can support responsible consumption, but the price point is not competitive. For most consumers, the choice of purchasing a 20 ounce soda for the same price as a 1 liter (or sometimes 2 liter!) bottle is not one they are willing to make.

So, for the sake of your teeth and your waistline, choose these drinks carefully, If you enjoy an occasional treat, select a small serving (100 calories or so). Or better yet, select a low-calorie sweetened soda, or seltzer with some lemon or lime added. And skip the 100% juice – it’s always better to eat your fruit, and not drink it!