Livingston Adopts New Healthy Beverage Policy

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Studies have found that Latino kids drink more sugary drinks a day than their White peers, putting them at a higher risk for diet-related diseases, like obesity.The City of Livingston, CA has a Latino population of over 70%, and health activists in the city were looking for a way to reduce sugary drink consumption and promote healthier drinks.

In April 2014, the city officially adopted a healthy beverages policy. The healthy beverages policy was introduced to the city by the California Health Collaborative, a program that focuses on promoting wellness through community education

The Police Department, Department of Public Works and City Hall employees have begun participating in the program.

Healthy beverages choices that are now served at meetings and events include water with no added sweeteners, unflavored nonfat or 1 percent milk alternatives, 100 percent fruit or vegetable juices, coffee, tea and diet beverages with non-caloric sweeteners. Juices may have a maximum of 160 calories and 230 milligrams of sodium per container.

City officials hope the new policy will encourage residents, especially kids, to rethink their beverage choices and pick healthy drinks over sugar-loaded ones.

Read more here.