How Communities Are Fighting Back Against Big Soda… And Winning

Sugary drinks — including soda, sports drinks, energy drinks and sweetened teas and coffees — are the No. 1 source of added sugars in the American diet. And the consequences are staggering.

These beverages fuel a growing epidemic of chronic disease, driving up rates of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity and tooth decay in every corner of the country.

Shockingly, kids in the U.S. drink more than 30 gallons of sugary drinks each year — enough to fill a bathtub. That’s not just a statistic: It’s a direct threat to the health and future of an entire generation. And it’s no accident, given the tactics of the soda industry.

For years, the American Heart Association has fought to curb sugary drink consumption and protect families' health. Time and time again, soda companies have fought these policies. They use distortions and half-truths to block progress and discredit those working to safeguard our communities. In reality, all they care about is their bottom line, putting profits over people.

In the face of industry opposition, here are four ways we can take action:

1. Enact public policies to reduce sugary drink consumption: Public policies such as removing sugary drinks from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and raising excise taxes on sugary drinks can be effective at reducing consumption. Cities across America, including Philadelphia, Boulder, Seattle and several in California, have seen the benefits of implementing sugary drink taxes. Santa Cruz became the latest community to pass a sugary drink tax when voters last November approved a measure despite millions of dollars in soda industry opposition. Voters in cities like Berkeley have extended sugary beverage taxes beyond their initial sunset period, showing lasting support once these health-promoting policies are passed.
2. Expose industry’s predatory marketing tactics: On social media, video games, streaming services, television and even in schools, kids are bombarded with sugary beverage promotions. The industry must be held accountable for prioritizing its profits over our children’s health.
3. Eliminate sugary drinks early: The American Heart Association has worked for years to take soda and other sugary drinks out of our nation’s schools. Sugary drinks have no place in child care centers, preschools and other places where young children spend time. They should be removed from these settings. Research shows that the earlier kids start drinking sugary beverages the more they will prefer these drinks, setting them on a path for an unhealthy diet and increased risk for diabetes, obesity and other chronic diseases.
4. Support communities that take a stand: People are coming together in cities across America to pass local policies, fight back against preemption (when corporations influence state lawmakers to limit community action) and demand healthier environments. Their efforts should be supported so more communities have a voice in determining their laws.

Sugary drink consumption is driving a preventable health crisis, yet the soda industry’s opposition to proven solutions drives more illness, shorter lives and higher health care costs.

To the soda companies, this is a fight to protect profits. To public health advocates, this is about people, families and communities standing up for their health. Together, we will overcome industry opposition and build a healthier, stronger America for everyone.

Learn more about the American Heart Association’s commitment to reducing consumption of sugary drinks here.