Knowledge is Powerful

In 2005-2010, U.S. adults drank an average of 39 ounces of water on a given day. We all know that getting enough water is important for your health.  Among U.S. adults, plain water intake is lower in older adults, lower income adults, and those with lower education.  Healthy people meet their fluid needs by drinking when thirsty and drinking with meals. Most of your fluid needs are met through the water and beverages you drink.  

To address this issue, the Boone County Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Assistant (SNAP-ED) offered a “Know the Limits of Fats, Sugars and Salt” session.  Fourteen participants were surprised by the amount of sugar, saturated fats, and sodium they unknowingly consumed daily. The participants were shocked by the visual evidence of a large test tube filled with 9 teaspoons of sugar to illustrate what is in one 12 ounce can of soft drink and offers no nutritional value for the calories.

During the class conversation, participants discussed ways to choose water instead of sugar-sweetened beverages.  One way is to choose water with meals, which saves money and reduces calories.  One participant started adding wedges of lime and lemon to her water. She loved the taste and helped her drink more water.

As a result, the group has actively reduced the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages, and continues to work towards consuming the recommended eight 8-ounces of water daily.

Data from: CDC Center for Disease Control and Prevention