ADA Statement On Clinton Foundation/Beverage Industry Agreement On Eliminating Soft Drinks Sales In Schools

A 2004 study found that parents are children's primary influence when it comes to consumption of soft drinks.

07/05/06 Steps announced Wednesday by the Alliance for a Healthier Generation and beverage industry leaders to remove soft drinks from the nation's schools will be helpful in reducing the amount of non-nutritive calories available to children during the school day, and should be coupled with effective nutrition education for children both in school and at home, according to the food and nutrition experts of the American Dietetic Association.

"Children learn by example, whether the example is being set at school or at home," said registered dietitian and ADA spokesperson Rachel Brandeis.

A 2004 study from the University of Pennsylvania, published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association, found that parents are children's primary influence when it comes to consumption of soft drinks. The study also found children who watch television 3.5 hours or more a day are twice as likely to consume soft drinks on a near-daily basis than kids who watch less television.

"As parents, we have the responsibility to make sure soft drinks are not replacing water and nutrient-rich beverages our children need for healthy bones. As your best guideline, enjoy soft drinks in moderation - as long as you consume the nutrients you need from other sources and don't overdo on calories in your overall diet," Brandeis said.

It is the position of the American Dietetic Association that the school and community have a shared responsibility to provide all students with access to high-quality food and nutrition services as an integral part of the total education program.

"Children should be supported through school district policies that create an overall school environment with learning experiences that enable them to develop lifelong, healthful eating habits," Brandeis said.

Since dietetics is the only nutrition science that directly connects food to nutrition and health, registered dietitians are uniquely trained in ways to help schools, families and children integrate nutrition into healthier choices and lifestyles.

With approximately 65,000 members, the American Dietetic Association is the nation's largest organization of food and nutrition professionals. The Chicago-based ADA serves the public by promoting optimal nutrition, health and well-being.

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