Few previous studies have investigated consumption distributions of sugar-sweetened
beverages (SSBs) over time and individual-level associations despite recent interest
in SSBs regarding obesity control.
To assess consumption patterns and individual-level associations.
Trend and cross-sectional analyses of 24-hour dietary recall data and demographic
characteristics and socioeconomic status (SES) drawn from National Health and Nutrition
Examination Survey (1999-2000, 2001-2002, 2003-2004, 2005-2006, and 2007-2008) data.
Children (aged 2 to 11 years, n=8,627), adolescents (aged 12 to 19 years, n=8,922),
young adults (aged 20 to 34 years, n=5,933), and middle-aged and elder adults (aged
≥35 years, n=16,456).
Age-stratified regression analyses for SSBs overall and by subtypes.
The prevalence of heavy total SSB consumption (≥500 kcal/day) increased among children
(4% to 5%) although it decreased among adolescents (22% to 16%) and young adults (29%
to 20%). Soda was the most heavily consumed SSB in all age groups except for children.
Prevalence of soda consumption decreased, whereas heavy sports/energy drink consumption
tripled (4% to 12%) among adolescents. Black children and adolescents showed higher
odds of heavy fruit drink consumption (odds ratios 1.71 and 1.67) than whites. Low-income
children had a higher odds of heavy total SSB consumption (odds ratio 1.93) and higher
energy intake from total SSBs and fruit drinks (by 23 and 27 kcal/day) than high-income
children. Adolescents with low- vs high-educated parents had higher odds of heavy
total SSB consumption (odds ratio 1.28) and higher energy intake from total SSBs and
soda (by 27 and 21 kcal/day). Low vs high SES was associated with a higher odds of
heavy consumption of total SSBs, soda, and fruit drinks among adults.
Prevalence of soda consumption fell, but consumption of nontraditional SSBs rose.
Heterogeneity of heavy consumption by SSB types across racial/ethnic subpopulations
and higher odds of heavy SSB consumption among low-SES populations should be considered
in targeting policies to encourage healthful beverage consumption.
Copyright © 2013 Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Published by Elsevier Inc. All
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