Rationing drink size to help rationalize our sugar intake

The need for addressing the proximal causes of obesity has become very vital to control obesity related diseases like diabetes mellitus, coronary artery disease and other related health concerns all over the globe. The menace of drunken driving and the heavy consumption of alcoholic beverages have resulted in formulating policies to address and curtail the consumption of alcohol. The regulations regarding alcohol sale were addressed related to access, salience, and impulsive drinking behaviors are by regulating alcohol outlet density limits, imposing constraints on retail displays of alcoholic beverages, and restrictions on drink "specials."

The sugary drinks are another source of excess calories that add up to the list of proximal causes of obesity. Visual presentation of facts about diet and nutrients do educate the people and make them aware of the inherent threat to their health by consuming such drinks in excess. These are public health concern and the regulations to reduce and set the upperlimit of size for serving such drinks by New York City council will definitely help address such causes of obesity.

A big sized scoop of popcorn with a large size coke is a scene of fast food culture in every part of the world. Like analysing the chemical composition of soft drinks the size and volume of the drink must also form the basis for approving such drinks to be sold in the market. It is true that every government must be aware of such health threats to society and it is necessary to regulate the sale and display of healthy foods in stores and restaurants to control such proximal causes of obesity.

Cohen D, Rabinovich L. Addressing the Proximal Causes of Obesity: The Relevance of Alcohol Control Policies. Prev Chronic Dis 2012;9:110274.

Conflict of Interest:

None declared