In New Zealand, we consume on average about 37 teaspoons of sugar per day in the food we eat and in what we drink. Adults should ideally consume no more than about six teaspoons of sugar per day, and children no more than about three to four teaspoons per day.
Sugary drinks, also known as sugar sweetened beverages (SSBs), can contain a surprising amount of sugar. For example, a single 355ml can of fizzy drink may contain up to 9 teaspoons of sugar, and a 600mL bottle may contain 16-18 teaspoons of sugar.
Consuming sugary drinks increases the risk of obesity, diabetes and tooth decay in children and adults. Children who consume one sugary drink or more per day are 50% - 60% more likely to be overweight or obese than children who do not. Having one or two sugary drinks per day may increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 26%. The high sugar content and acidity of many sugary drinks can cause tooth decay.
Toi Te Ora Public Health recommends water and plain milk as the preferred drinks for children and supports initiatives that reduce the promotion, availability and consumption of sugary drinks.
Drinks that are often very high in sugar include:
- Soft drinks
- Fizzy drinks
- Sports drinks
- Energy drinks
- Fruit drinks
- Powdered drinks
- Cordials
- Flavoured milks
- Flavoured waters
- Iced teas/coffees
- Smoothies
Natural fruit juice, even without added sugar, may have high sugar content similar to a fizzy drink.
Sugary drinks are high in sugar and calories, but typically have little or no nutritional benefit.
Sugary drinks are less likely to trigger feelings of fullness, making it easier to take in more calories than we need without realising.
Watch this 'Rethink Sugary Drinks' video below, which encourages Australians to choose water as the best option.
Toi Te Ora Public Health recommends water and plain milk as the preferred drinks for children and supports initiatives that reduce the promotion, availability and consumption of sugary drinks.
What can we do?
- Keep our home free of sugary drinks
- Encourage children to drink water and plain milk
- Pack water bottles for children to take to school
- Keep a bottle of cold water in the fridge for everyone to drink
- When eating out, look for healthy drink options
Read about other ideas on ditching sugary drinks.
Read about how to spot added sugar.
Updated 28 Nov, 2023