CINCINNATI -- Studies show that guzzling just one sugary drink per day can increase the risk of obesity, diabetes and heart disease, but that hasn't kept Tri-Staters away from their pop.
Nearly 6 of 10 Kentuckians in rural counties like Bracken, Carroll, Gallatin, Owen and Pendleton drink seven or more sugary drinks per week, according to the 2017 Community Health Status Survey.
Rural Hoosiers and Buckeyes aren't much more health-conscious, as about half of them report consuming soda, sweet tea, sports drinks or fruit juices more than seven times weekly.
Data compiled by Interact for Health
"Sugar adds calories to a person’s diet without providing the nutrients needed to be healthy,” said O’dell Moreno Owens, president/CEO of Interact for Health, which conducted the survey.
He said federal dietary guidelines suggest limiting added sugars to 10 percent of daily calories or else people may not get the nutrients they need from fruits, grains, vegetables, protein and dairy products.
Alongside rural adults, the survey noted that lower-income adults, men and African-Americans were groups who are more likely to consume sugary beverages.
Examine the full report here and the full data tables here.
