Alarming rates of obesity have led Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) to ban sugary soft drinks at all of its facilities.
A video that will be play on screens throughout MLHD facilities highlights the risks of soft drinks, with the average can of drink containing 10 teaspoons of sugar.
According to MLHD chief Jill Ludford, people who drink one can of soft drink per day will consume 14kg of extra sugar in a year, leading to a 6.5kg weight gain.
“We have a significant problem with rates of diabetes, being overweight or obese and related chronic diseases in our region,” Ms Ludford said. “As a health service, we need to set a good example for everyone who walks through our door.”
Drinks allowed include water, milk-based drinks, 99 per cent juice-based drinks and sugar-free diet drinks.
Stephen Mudd
Stephen Mudd is a journalist for Fairfax Media west of the great divide. He loves music, dogs and travel.
Stephen Mudd is a journalist for Fairfax Media west of the great divide. He loves music, dogs and travel.
