Soda Consumption and Childhood Obesity

Today, children have soda available to them everywhere they go; schools, restaurants, shopping malls, home. America has allowed beverage companies to push the unhealthy sugary drinks instead of promoting bottled waters and naturally flavored, vitamin enriched drinks. Since habits established in childhood become lifelong habits, soda consumption for kids has dangerous consequences for future health. Over consumption and lack of limitations on soda has lead to a rise in childhood obesity, leading our kids into adult obesity.

According to the November 6, 2002 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association, 60% of all American middle schools and high schools sell soft drinks in vending machines. An estimated 240 school districts have signed contracts with beverage companies to install vending machines in their schools. The catch--allowing corporate logos on scoreboards, book covers, i.e. "free advertising"; the schools get cash, sometimes hundreds of thousands of dollars a year, or more. When school districts are strapped for cash, it makes it hard to resist. Especially when the money buys computers, books for the library, and uniforms. In turn companies build brand loyalty among youth and keep sales flowing all year long.

A recent report indicated each daily serving of a sugary drink raised the risk of obesity by 60 percent. This report sparked concern and national media attention and bans on soda drinks in some schools are starting to take place. It will take a few years for others to follow, but any small effort is a good first step in the battle against child obesity. Parents, teachers, caregivers and others who care about children need to take a close look at what is offered at their schools. Karen Cullen, a pediatrician and nutritionist with Baylor College of Medicine, states "When concerned citizens speak loudly enough, they can wield more influence that soda companies can ever hope to buy."

Parents can address the problem starting in their home. Melinda Southern, Ph.D., an exercise physiologist and childhood obesity specialist from Louisiana State University and co-author of Trim Kids, said "Parents who want to take a stand against soda should start at home. They shouldn't try to ban soda altogether, but they should set limits. Gradually, over time, parents can substitute healthier drinks so that soda again recedes to its earlier status as an occasional treat." In our home, we use soda only when entertaining and our kids have come to view it as an occasional treat. At the dinner table, our family drink choices are milk or water. This has established a lifestyle habit that our oldest daughter, now a Mom, continues in her home.

Start today and set a good example for your child by encouraging healthy drink choices.

How?

Drink milk, limit juice to 100% fruit juice, drink water, avoid sugary, high calorie drinks, teach your child about serving size (a single serving is supposed to be just 8 ounces), put limits on the amount of money you provide your child which they could use in school vending machines, avoid caffeine, talk to your child about what they are drinking at school. And, remember that you are the most powerful influence in your child's life. Model the daily behavior you wish your child to learn. Your actions are much more powerful than your words. Donít make a big deal yapping about it, just do it and reap the rewards!