The students at Glen Huon have recently learnt about sugary drinks and why water is the best drink to keep themselves hydrated throughout the day. They learnt that sweet drinks, such as cordial and sports drinks are high in sugar but have no other nutritional value and that these are best drunk sometimes, not every day, as they can fill children up and replace other more nutritious foods.

The students also learnt about these health benefits of water

• helps your skin be healthy.
• helps keep headaches away.
• helps your body’s digestive system – how it processes food and gets rid of waste when you go to the toilet.
• helps you have energy – being dehydrated can sap your energy and make you tired.
• helps you concentrate longer and do well at school and in sport.

During the lesson the students also learnt about how many teaspoons of added sugar are in sweet drinks

• Flavoured milk = 3 teaspoons added sugar
• 100% fruit juice = 5 teaspoons sugar (Natural sugar- better to have an actual piece of fruit and a glass of water)
• Blackcurrant cordial = 7 teaspoons added sugar
• Soft drink ( i.e. coke or lemonade)= 7 teaspoons added sugar
• Energy drink = 7 teaspoons added sugar

For more information look at Tap into Water Everyday | Move Well Eat Well or www.eatforhealth.gov.au