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The average sugar intake in American adults increased by 30% between the 1970’s and 2010, but has leveled-off in recent years. This reflects a shift in beverage choices, with more individuals cutting out added sugars by choosing sugar-free drinks. For most Americans, however, sugary drinks are still the top source of added sugars in the diet.

When Sweets are Abundant, Sour Outcomes Prevail

Sweet drinks deliver short-term mouth pleasure, but harm health long-term. As sugar sources become more accessible, rates of obesity and type 2 diabetes soar. A study on over 175 countries found that for every 150 calories from sugar available per person per day, diabetes prevalence rises significantly.

Almost half of all sugar-sweetened beverages consumed in the US occur outside of the home. Many admit to impulse purchases, and have routines established involving beverage vending machines associated with work. Workplaces that provide sugar-free alternatives can support employees who are trying to reduce their sugar intake. 

One of the most outspoken researchers who studies the role of sugar is Dr. Robert Lustig. As a medical doctor and long-time obesity researcher, Dr. Lustig maintains that the obesity pandemic reflects our access to processed foods with added sugar, including soda, energy drinks, and many fruit juices. He also cautions against blaming individuals for poor health outcomes, arguing that our environment matters. “Ascribing personal responsibility to the obese individual is not a rational argument for a practical reason: It fails to advance any efforts to change it. The obesity pandemic is due to our altered biochemistry, which is a result of our altered environment.” 

Beverage Availability at Work

Several hospital systems are leading the effort to eliminate sugar-sweetened beverages. Interestingly, these changes do not result in beverage revenue losses. Instead, sales are altered such that sugar-free alternatives are purchased, and less sugar is consumed at work. With more than 100 hospitals and counting, this trend to improve the workplace food environment shows no sign of slowing down.

One reason for the widespread adoption of healthier workplace policies is that doctors and nurses are frequent witnesses to the devastating long-term effects of diabetes – heart disease, amputations, and blindness are just a few. They understand that as medical professionals they need to create a healthy environment as well as to model healthy behaviors for their patients. Plus, this worksite adjustment benefits health. As stated by experts on the topic: “Declines in sugar exposure correlate with significant subsequent declines in diabetes rates.” In short, this strategy works!

Enjoying Healthier Alternatives

If your workplace is ready to make improvements, a few helpful suggestions to consider:

1. Focus on the additions: An updated food environment should communicate on what you are now offering rather than what is no longer available. Fortunately, there are now dozens of healthy beverage and snack options for your cafeteria and vending areas that forego or limit sugar. For example, many consumers have embraced flavored flat or sparkling waters.
2. Pace the improvements: Beverage access changes do not have to be all-or-none. Instead, a gradual approach is ideal to ensure that employees can adjust to the changes in a phased manner. 
3. Secure leadership support: Leaders should express their support for healthy workplace initiatives. This step encourages widespread adoption of healthier habits at work. When the message from management is positive and supportive, it sends a unified message that encourages employees to try new selections.