Adolescents Perceive Sports Drinks, Not Sodas, as Consistent with a Healthy Lifestyle

While both consumption of sodas and flavored and sports beverages (FSBs) are associated with watching TV and snacking, FSB consumption occurs along with some healthy behaviors.

In the study, “Dietary and Activity Correlates of Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Consumption Among Adolescents,” published in the October 2010 print issue of Pediatrics (published online Sept. 27), FSBs were associated with increased milk, fruit and vegetable consumption and greater physical activity. These behaviors were not seen with soda consumption.

The study authors believe this discrepency is due to marketing efforts that link FSBs to a healthy lifestyle, although in reality, their health benefits are questionable. Recognizing these misperceptions is important to obesity prevention efforts.