Sugary drinks are the #1 source of added sugars in the U.S. diet. Examples of sugary beverages include regular soda, fruit drinks, sports drinks, juice, energy drinks and more… Consuming too much sugar increases the risk of heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and tooth decay. In the American diet, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, particularly among people living in poverty and racial/ethnic minority groups. Fifty percent (50 %) of excess calories consumed by Americans comes from sugary drinks. The American Heart Association recommends that children and teens limit sugar-sweetened drinks to 8 ounces per week — that’s less than a regular 12-ounce soda can. As an overall daily limit on added sugar, young people should get less than 6 tablespoons (which is about 100 calories or 25 grams). Compare that to the whopping 39 grams of sugar found in a 12-ounce can of soda. Plus, with added sugar hiding in seemingly innocent foods like pasta sauce, yogurt, and salad dressing, it’s all too easy for children and teens to go over the limit in just one meal — without accounting for treats. |