Rethink Your Drink is campaign was initiated under the California Department of Public Health as a direct response to the climbing rate of overweight, obesity, and chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes. It's purpose is to provide California residents' with the knowledge they need to identity between healthy and unhealthy beverages, and to decrease their consumption of sugary beverages.
Sugary drinks such as sodas, sports drinks, energy drinks, and sweetened teas are full of added sugar and little to no nutrients. These beverages do not belong to any MyPlate food group, and are considered an "extra".
Sugary drinks such as sodas, sports drinks, energy drinks, and sweetened teas are full of added sugar and little to no nutrients. These beverages do not belong to any MyPlate food group, and are considered an "extra".
Make Every Sip Count
Parents, When Choosing Drinks, Ask:
How can I make every sip count? Drink natural, nutrient-packed beverages like milk, 100% juices and water to boost your nutrition.
Did I drink 2-3 cups of milk today? If not, drink low-fat milk or fat-free milk to build strong teeth and bones.
Am I thirsty? Choose water to stay hydrated without adding extra calories. Use tap water and add ice cubues to save money. Add flavor with sliced fruit or cucumber.
What if I don't like the taste of tap water?
Leave water overnight in an open container, loosely covered with a towel, and chlorine will evaporate.
What should I do with the large drink from a meal combo at fast food restaurants?
Substitute low-fat or fat-free milk, water, unsweetened tear, or split a drink with family.
Did I drink 2-3 cups of milk today? If not, drink low-fat milk or fat-free milk to build strong teeth and bones.
Am I thirsty? Choose water to stay hydrated without adding extra calories. Use tap water and add ice cubues to save money. Add flavor with sliced fruit or cucumber.
What if I don't like the taste of tap water?
Leave water overnight in an open container, loosely covered with a towel, and chlorine will evaporate.
What should I do with the large drink from a meal combo at fast food restaurants?
Substitute low-fat or fat-free milk, water, unsweetened tear, or split a drink with family.
Drink Less Often
Soda
Sports drinks
Energy drinks
Fruit drinks
Vitamin-added water
Sweetened teas and coffees
Full fat milk
(only recommended to children 1-2 years old)
Sports drinks
Energy drinks
Fruit drinks
Vitamin-added water
Sweetened teas and coffees
Full fat milk
(only recommended to children 1-2 years old)
Choose Most Often
Water: Plain or infused with vegetables, fruit, and/or herbs
Milk: Low-fat or fat-free
100% fruit and/or vegetable juice
Unsweetened teas and coffees
Sparkling/Mineral water
Milk: Low-fat or fat-free
100% fruit and/or vegetable juice
Unsweetened teas and coffees
Sparkling/Mineral water
Source: "Beverages: Make Every Sip County." 2010 Dairy Council of California, rev 2013, with the Orange County Nutrition and Physical Activity Collaborative (NuPAC).
Choose health. Drink water.
How much sugar is hiding in your favorite drink? This handy chart shows just how sweet those sugary drinks are, and how much activity it takes to burn off those extra calories.