It is common knowledge that large sodas and sugary drinks are unhealthy. However, restaurants, theaters, and food chains always have super-sized and extra large cups available for purchase, most of which include unlimited refills. It is not healthy for people to consume such large quantities of sugary drinks, but who is going to put a stop to these excessive beverage options?
New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg proposed a regulation to ban restaurants, theaters, concession stands, and other eateries from selling large sodas and other sugary drinks. Specifically, the regulation bans the sale of sweetened drinks in cups and bottles that are larger than 16 ounces. This was the first time a mayor had attempted to do this. New York City’s Board of Health approved this regulation, and the ban will go into effect on March 12, 2013. The restaurant and beverage industries are fighting against this ban, even threatening to bring it to court.
Drinking massive amounts of soda and other beverages that contain large amounts of sugar may lead to heart disease, obesity, tooth decay, and a variety of other health conditions that are not to be taken lightly. The American Dental Association (ADA) has attempted several times to share this knowledge with the public and keep them informed of these dangers so that they could make better choices when they order a drink.
Though this ban has caused controversy and may not stop people from consuming these large drinks, many health institutions, including the ADA, are recognizing Mayor Bloomberg for shedding light on the dangers of large sugar consumption.
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