A stream of sugar is being poured onto a pile of sugar.

Uncover the Health Risks of Sugary Drinks

Sugary drinks come with some not so sweet health risks. Find healthier alternatives for your family today.

Uncover the Health Risks of Sugary Drinks

Sugary drinks come with some not so sweet health risks. Find healthier alternatives for your family today.

Three cold beverages highlighting the harmful effects sugary drinks have on health.

Type 2 Diabetes

Those who have sugary drinks daily are 26% more likely to develop type 2 diabetes compared to those who rarely reach for them.

Heart Disease

Research shows that consuming sugary drinks daily may increase your chances of developing heart disease or having a heart attack.

Tooth Decay

Dentists agree, drinking too much added sugar daily is a leading cause of tooth decay and cavities.

How much added sugar do you drink daily? Look out for your family
by limiting sugary drinks with unwanted risks.


Get your beverage breakdown

Sugar is Sneaky

Added sugar can show up where you least suspect it. See how much is hiding in your family's favorite drinks and avoid the sugar shock.

A hand pouring a sugar-sweetened soda into a cup.
SODA
One 12 oz. can =
10 teaspoons of sugar
A person sitting next to a sugar-sweetened energy drink and a skateboard.
ENERGY DRINK
One 16 oz. can =
8 - 11 teaspoons of sugar
A lunchbox filled with a sandwich, pretzels, and a sugar-sweetened fruit drink.
FRUIT DRINK
One 8 oz. pouch =
6 - 8 teaspoons of sugar
A bottle of a sugary sports drink next to a basketball.
SPORTS DRINK
One 12 oz. bottle =
9 teaspoons of sugar
Two glasses of iced sweet tea on a table.
SWEETENED TEA
One 16 oz. bottle =
7 teaspoons of sugar
A to-go cup of flavored coffee with the amount of sugar written over the image.
FLAVORED COFFEE
One 13.7 oz. bottle =
8 teaspoons of sugar
A woman examining a bottle of soda in a grocery store.

Learn to Read Between the Labels

When shopping, look for terms like “100% juice” to make healthier selections. Be cautious of ingredients like “syrup” or “juice concentrate,” which can be other sources of added sugar.
A young boy quenching his thirst by drinking water from a glass.

Every Sip Counts

Choose water or healthier options for your family. Countless people across California communities have cut down on sugary drinks.
Learn how you can, too
A man pouring fruit-infused water into a cup for a boy.
MIX UP NEW FLAVORS
Elevate your hydration game by adding berries or slices of lime, lemon or cucumber.
A hand holding a lemon slice over a glass of water.
GET FIZZY WITH IT
Mix sparkling water with a squeeze of juice from your favorite fruit for a low-calorie drink that’s still sweet without the added sugar.
Fresh vegetables and a pitcher of water in a refrigerator.
REFRESH YOUR FRIDGE
Instead of stocking up on sugary drinks, keep a jug of cold water in the fridge that’s always ready.

Sip Smarter with Water

Unlike sugary drinks, water is packed with benefits for our bodies instead of added sugars. It’s good for our brains, skin and overall well-being. Whether you like it chilled, bubbly, iced or fruit-infused, make water your family’s drink whenever possible.

More recipes & healthy alternatives

Thirsty for More?

Get additional healthy recipes, tips and 10-minute workouts.

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A colorful plate of nutritious dishes, including fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
Healthy recipes
A woman and a boy smiling, toasting with glasses of water.
Tips & Resources
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10-minute workouts