Obesity in children has reached epidemic proportions.1
Ultimately energy imbalance is the reason for excessive weight
gain, whether the main cause is genetic, endocrinal, or idiopathic.2 A contributory factor seems to be the consumptionof carbonated drinks sweetened with sugar.3 These have a high
glycaemic index and are energy dense. Children who drink one
regular carbonated drink a day have an average 10% more total
energy intake than non-consumers.4 In the United Kingdom
more than 70% of adolescents consume carbonated drinks on a
regular basis.