Stop and think before you drink sugary beverages — drink water instead

Imagine scooping 10 spoons of sugar into your glass of water. Does that seem like a lot? That’s how much sugar is in the average can of soda and many other sugary drinks.

Read on to get the facts about sugary beverages.

Four reasons to re-think your drink

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Energy crash
Sugary drinks cause a fast rise in blood sugar that’s soon followed by a crash. When blood sugar crashes, you may feel cranky, sleepy, and hungry.
Cravings for high-glycemic carbs
When a sugary drink leads to an energy crash, you may crave more sugar. It can become a vicious cycle. Replace sugary drinks with water.
False advertising
Beverage companies use eye-catching images and hire celebrities to make their unhealthy drinks seem cool. They also use misleading labels to confuse kids and parents. Don't be tricked.
Tooth decay
Bacteria in your mouth use the sugar in drinks to make acid. This acid can destroy your tooth enamel and cause cavities.

Why drink water?

Water is the ideal drink to satisfy your thirst, and it does much more than that. Every part of your body needs water — it’s good for your skin, your energy level, and even your brain.

Test your knowledge: How much do you know about water?

  1. Water is the best thirst quencher.
  2. Kids need to drink about eight cups of water a day.
  3. Some foods, like watermelon and cucumbers, are a good source of water.
  4. A squeeze of lemon, lime, or orange can add flavor to water — without sugar.
  5. Your body is more than half water.
  6. Water helps digest food and carries nutrients throughout your body.
  7. Water helps control body temperature. That’s why you sweat in hot weather.
  8. You lose water when you go to the bathroom, sweat, and breathe.
  9. Without enough water, you may get a headache or feel tired.
  10. Humans can live for several weeks without food but only a few days without water.

Resources to help think about drinks and track water


 

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