Kids Fizzle Out: The Problems with Drinking Too Much Soda

Child obesity is on the rise. But in a world of fast food and soda pop it isn't so surprising? A study published Monday in Pediatrics indicates that U.S. children are consuming significantly more calories from sugar-laden beverages than they were 20 years ago. The study also suggests that limiting those drinks may help reduce the prevalence of obesity. Researchers from Columbia University in New York City found that children ages 2 to 19 consumed an average of 270 calories daily from sugary drinks and juices between 1999 and 2004, compared with an average of 242 calories daily between 1988 and 1994. This rise in caloric intake is not a healthy one. Our children are exposed to the soda-pop lifestyle daily. Colorful advertisements, school vending machines, and refreshment stands are constantly promoting these drinks to kids. As parents and role models we need to monitor and enforce soft drink consumption. Although this sweet treat may be tasty, the overall impact is huge.

Children ages 6 to 11 experienced the sharpest rise in sweetened beverage intake; consuming 20 percent more calories from sugar-sweetened beverages in 1999-2004 than in 1988-1994, say Columbia University's researchers.

The facts are no mystery but change is on the minds of several health leaders in California. On Wednesday northern California health leaders launched an anti-obesity campaign that encourages residents, particularly children, to limit their soft drink intake, the San Jose Mercury News reports. More than 100 community organizations are promoting the "Soda Free Summer"