Excessive Soft Drink Consumption

Determining the exact threshold for what constitutes excessive or harmful soft drink consumption can be challenging, as it depends on various factors such as an individual's overall diet, lifestyle, and health status. However, health experts generally recommend limiting the intake of sugary beverages, including soft drinks, due to their negative impact on health. Here are some data on national average soft drink consumption in a few countries for comparison:

United States: According to data from the Beverage Marketing Corporation, the average American consumed approximately 38.87 gallons (about 147 liters) of carbonated soft drinks per year in 2019. This translates to roughly 1 to 2 servings per day, depending on portion size.

Mexico: Mexico has one of the highest average soft drink consumption rates globally. According to a report by Euromonitor International, Mexicans consumed an average of 121.2 liters of carbonated soft drinks per person in 2019, equivalent to over 2 servings per day.

Australia: The Australian Bureau of Statistics reported that the average Australian consumed around 85 liters of carbonated soft drinks per year in 2017-2018, indicating a daily average of approximately 232 ml or less than one serving per day.

United Kingdom: In the UK, the average soft drink consumption varies. According to data from the British Soft Drinks Association, the average per capita soft drink consumption was approximately 87 liters in 2019, equivalent to less than one serving per day.

It is important to note that these figures represent average consumption rates and may vary among individuals within each country. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends limiting added sugar intake to less than 10% of total daily calorie intake, and further reducing it to below 5% for additional health benefits. This includes sugar from all sources, including soft drinks. Based on these guidelines, regular or excessive consumption of soft drinks, particularly those high in added sugars, can be harmful to health.

It is advisable for individuals to prioritize healthier beverage choices such as water, unsweetened tea, and natural juices, and to consume soft drinks in moderation or consider alternatives with lower sugar content. Consulting with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian can provide personalized guidance on optimal beverage consumption based on individual health needs and goals.