Is Coke The Cause of Obesity?

There was a very good article in the Wall Street Journal last week written by Muhtar Kent, CEO of the Coca-Cola Company. He explained how it is inappropriate to tax certain beverages and foods that have been determined to be  high in calories. I agree with him. Sugar-sweetened beverages contribute to approximately 5% of calories in the average American diet according to the National Cancer Institute.

Grant it high calorie beverages are definitely a contributing factor to obesity, however, they are not the only cause. Obesity is a very multi-factorial problem that has developed because of lack of portion control, poor food and beverage choices, lack of adequate exercise and increasing sedentary behaviors. Not drinking high calorie beverages will not make obesity go away. It will definitely help but there is more effort that has to go into it. The root cause of the problem still comes down to making wise healthy lifestyle choices and education.

We can not attack the obesity issue by pointing fingers and expecting everyone to take the blame. We as parents, health care providers and community leaders need to attack the issue at all levels. Taxing will not make the problem go away. This is exactly why YoMedics healthy lifestyle programs discuss the importance of healthy nutrition, exercise, positive thoughts and education. All of these issues need to be addressed before change can be made. YoMedics programs do that! If you truly want to make changes in your family in regards to healthy lifestyle choices then YoMedics is the answer for you. We will educate you and teach you sustainable changes for a healthy life. The answer for childhood and adolescent obesity is YoMedics.