We’ve always known that pure water is the best beverage of choice, and now it seems that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HSS) and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) agree with us. In the recently adopted 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA), the DGA states, “When choosing beverages, both the calories and nutrients they may provide are important considerations. Beverages that are calorie-free—especially water—or that contribute beneficial nutrients, such as fat-free and low-fat milk and 100% juice, should be the primary beverages consumed.”
According to the DGA, added sugars account for almost an average of 270 calories – more than 13% of calories per day in the U.S. population, and the major source of this added sugar is in beverages such as soft drinks, sweetened fruit drinks, energy drinks, sweetened coffee and tea, and alcoholic beverages. The DGA recommends that Americans reduce their intake of added sugars to no more than 10% of daily calories – that would be the equivalent of a 16 oz. soft drink. Instead, we think making pure water your first choice for thirst is the best and simplest way to meet this federal guideline. The DGA thinks so too, and believes that strategies should “include choosing beverages with no added sugars, such as water…”
The International Bottled Water Association (IBWA) applauds the DGA including water as part of a healthy diet, and states that studies have shown that drinking pure water is associated with reduced incidence of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Additionally, hydration is critical for proper cellular and organ function.
“Water, including bottled water, helps people pursue a healthy lifestyle and avoid sugar-sweetened beverage consumption, and we are happy to see the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) reflect this important fact,” said IBWA President and CEO, Joe Doss. “Water also plays a vital role in supporting nutritional health … Americans need guidance on how to be more aware of what they drink and, to reduce their calorie consumption from beverages.”
Read the complete 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) for more information.