Looking to make a simple change that can have a large impact on your health? Sugar-sweetened beverages are the leading source of added sugars in American diets. Added sugars are those that don’t naturally occur in foods; they are added to make foods and drinks sweeter (https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/healthy_eating/drinks.html). These drinks can contribute to Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.
So why not ditch the added sweetness?! You’re already sweet enough!
Here are some simple ways to transition away from sugar sweetened beverages, and make water the first (and easy) choice.
- Start off simple. Reduce your sugar sweetened beverages by one each week, or mix your drinks ½ sweet and ½ unsweetened.
- Keep it close. Carry water with you. Decorate or purchase your own water bottle to make it unique to you.
- Make it fancy. Add a splash of sweet and a dash of fancy with some fresh or frozen fruit, fresh vegetables or herbs.
- Choose water first for thirst. When eating out, choose water first.
- Special occasions. Limit sugar sweetened beverages to special occasions and choose the smallest size.
- Get it outta here! Take away the temptation by keeping all sugar sweetened beverages out of the house. It may save some $$ too!
- Miss the fizz? Add a splash of juice to unsweetened sparkling water for a splash of sweet and satisfying fizz.
Looking for some tips straight to your phone? Sign up for Text2BHealthy by texting “WATER” to 42033.
