Sugar is the key

May 30 2005

By The Evening Chronicle

Drinking lots of sugary and fizzy drinks may be a key factor in the increasing childhood obesity epidemic, researchers have said. Figures show that the prevalence of obesity among children aged two to 10 in England has increased from 9.9% in 1995 to 13.7% in 2003. The percentage who were either overweight or obese increased from 22.7% in 1995 to 27.7% in 2003. Experts say that the typical teenager consumed around two cans of soft drinks each day, containing 300 calories and 20 teaspoons of sugar. It is recommended that only 10% of daily calories come from added sugars, but they account for 18-20% of children's average intake. Story continues ADVERTISEMENT The researchers also said that children appeared to be choosing soft drinks or other sweetened drinks instead of milk, which is leading to decreased levels of protein, calcium, zinc and vitamins A and C in their diet.

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