New Studies Add to Evidence Linking Soda to Weight Gain
Statement of CSPI Executive Director Michael F. Jacobson
September 21, 2012
Two important new studies are adding to the weight of evidence showing that soda and other sugary drinks promote weight gain and obesity. Considering the enormous personal and economic costs of obesity, it's high time for concerted action at all levels of government to reduce consumption of sugary drinks. We can start with major education campaigns, requiring warning notices on labels, imposing substantial taxes on sodas, and eliminating soda from public buildings and parks.
Nutritionally worthless sugary drinks are the largest single source of calories in the American diet. Consumers who want to reduce their risk of becoming a statistic in the next round of studies linking soda to weight gain and obesity would be well advised to sharply reduce or eliminate their consumption.
