Soft Drinks: Public Health Perspective

Abstract In light of the growing prevalence of obesity and related diseases, consumption of soft drinks, and in particular of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) has been recognized as a global health problem. Free-sugar intake, especially in the liquid form, has been linked to several adverse health outcomes, such as obesity, insulin resistance, diabetes mellitus type 2, and cardiovascular disease. Despite the observed decrease in SSB consumption in some Western countries, sugary drinks remain one of the main sources of free sugar across the globe. Given the growing amount of scientific evidence emphasizing the negative health impacts of SSBs, dietary guidelines consistently recommend limiting added or free-sugar consumption, particularly in form of SSBs. In response, public health policies across the globe are taking actions to reduce their consumption. Different countries have implemented various measures that target either individual behavior, such as educational programs, or were introduced as regulatory actions, ranging from taxation of SSBs to limited advertising.