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Drink Water – It’s Free and It Doesn’t Make You Fat
During the summer many of us grab drinks to take on walks, hikes, bike rides, picnics, cookouts, etc. Many times those drinks are loaded with sugar and calories. In fact, the new 2010 Dietary Guidelines indicate that added sugars contribute an average of 16% of the total calories in American diets. And 36% of those calories come from soda, energy drinks and sports drinks (see the chart below). That’s more than candy, ice cream, cakes, and cookies combined.
Where’s the Sugar?
As a dietitian, some people think I don’t eat candy or sweets, but I do! And on Valentine’s Day next week, I’ll enjoy the box of chocolates my husband and kids get me (and I’ll share some too!). Food and eating should be pleasurable so it’s okay to enjoy sugary foods and drinks once in a while. It’s just important to not eat or drink so many sugary foods and drinks that they take the place of healthier ones like fruits, vegetables, and water.