Pouring on the Pounds: The Persistent Problem of Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Intake Among Children and Adolescents.

Sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) are a major source of calories in the diets of American children and adolescents. These beverages, which contain mainly sugar and few beneficial nutrients, have been linked to overweight, obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, dental caries, and other adverse conditions. Children of all ages consume SSBs, and schools, aided by the knowledge and direction of school nurses, can help students understand the health harms of SSBs, implement programs to discourage SSB intake, and play important roles in school and community efforts to limit SSBs.