Policy Changes Required To Reduce Consumption Of Soft Drinks At School

Main Category: Nutrition / Diet
Also Included In: Pediatrics / Children's Health
Article Date: 01 Sep 2008 - 0:00 PST

email to a friend   printer friendly   view / write opinions   rate article

In May 2006, an agreement was reached by the Alliance for a Healthier Generation and the American Beverage Association on voluntary sales restrictions on "competitive foods" such as soft drinks at schools. However, researchers at Pardee Rand Graduate School say limiting the availability of soft drinks at school may not be enough to affect overall consumption among elementary school children.

In a study of more than 4,000 children, the researchers found limiting soft drink availability at school is associated with a 4 percent decrease in overall consumption; 26 percent of children who have access to soft drinks at school drink them; and low-income and black non-Hispanic children consume more soft drinks at school and more soft drinks overall.

The researchers conclude: "Greater reductions in children's consumption of soft drinks will require policy changes that go beyond food availability at school…Such polices may include zoning regulations on food outlet types in residential or school areas and promotion of more healthful substitutes such as milk and fruit juice."

----------------------------
Article adapted by Medical News Today from original press release.
----------------------------

The Journal of the American Dietetic Association is the official research publication of the American Dietetic Association and is the premier peer-reviewed journal in the field of nutrition and dietetics. Conclusions of research studies do not necessarily reflect the official positions of the American Dietetic Association, and ADA does not assume responsibility for opinions expressed by authors of Journal articles.

The American Dietetic Association is the world's largest organization of food and nutrition professionals. ADA is committed to improving the nation's health and advancing the profession of dietetics through research, education and advocacy. Visit the American Dietetic Association at http://www.eatright.org/.

Source: Julia Dombrowski
American Dietetic Association