Eating For Health

Sugar‑sweetened beverages (SSBs) — including soda, sweet tea, fruit drinks, sports drinks, energy drinks, and sweetened coffee beverages — remain the #1 source of added sugars in the American diet. According to the CDC , sugary drinks contribute 35% of all added sugars consumed in the U.S. diet. Many kids and adults drink one or more sugared beverages daily. Did you know that one 12-ounce can of soda has more than 10 teaspoons of added sugar or 42 grams of added sugar?   In the South, sweet tea is especially common — and a large bottle can easily add 200 calories of added sugar in a single sitting. These calories provide no vitamins, minerals, or fiber , and they displace nutrient‑rich options like milk, water, or 100% juice. 🚨 Why Cut Back on Sugary Drinks? 1. Added sugars exceed recommended limits The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend limiting added sugars to <10% of total calories starting at age 2 , and zero added sugars for children under age 2 . Suga...

Carbonated waters are everywhere — from the grocery aisle to airplane drink carts — and many people reach for them as a refreshing alternative to soda. But are seltzer, club soda, and tonic water equally healthy choices? They’re all fizzy, but what’s inside each one varies more than you might expect. Understanding those differences can help you choose the right drink for your health goals. 🫙 What Each One Actually Is Seltzer Water — Just Bubbles and Water Seltzer is simply water infused with carbon dioxide. It contains no added minerals and has a clean, neutral taste. Many brands offer flavored versions without sugar. Club Soda — Carbonated Water with Minerals Club soda starts as carbonated water, but manufacturers add minerals such as sodium bicarbonate, potassium sulfate, or sodium chloride , giving it a slightly salty or “crisp” taste. It’s a common cocktail mixer. Tonic Water — Bitter, Sweet, and Distinct Tonic water contains quinine , which gives it a bitter flav...