You might have come across a news story or heard someone alleging that soda is the number one source of calories in the American diet. The reality is: it isn’t. In fact, all sugar-sweetened beverages make up just 6 percent of total calories. That means we are getting 94 percent of calories from other foods and beverages.
On top of that, did you know that calories in the American diet from added sugars in soda are down 39 percent since 2000? It’s true. And what’s more, food – not beverages – is the number one source of added sugars in the diet, making up 67 percent.
Pretty interesting, right?
While we agree that obesity is a serious issue, what we need is a comprehensive approach to solving it – one that takes into account the importance of balancing the calories we consume from all foods and beverages with those we expend through physical activity and exercise.
For more information and to clear up any questions you have, visit Let’s Clear It Up.