In a study released today, it is reported that 30% of calories taken in by the average US citizen is made up of junk food, soda, and desserts. And we wonder why we're fat?

The issue is that these "foods" have no nutrient quality whatsoever. So the stomach is being filled up with sugar, not having room left to eat foods that bring fiber, nutrients, essential oils or other important substances to the person. So the consumer gets fat and suffers from malnutrition at the same time.

Most people were only eating 10% of their daily intake with vegetables and fruits. Just about ANY diet out there - including the low carb diet - pushes daily vegetables as critical for proper nutrition. Nutritionists fear that most Americans are therefore suffering from malnutrition issues - even though they are overweight. The consumers are filling up on empty calories, not getting enough vitamins, and suffering a dual blow of obesity and lack of nutrients.

For example, in the study, the daily intake of soda represented 7% of all calories consumed. Fruit juices often have more sugar than soda does, with little nutritive benefit. Soda and fruit juice are completely unnecessary for nutrition reasons, and in fact studies have shown that the caffeine and cola in sodas can cause health problems. The sugar in soda and fruit juice of course causes tooth decay and weight problems. If Americans would simply replace their daily consumption of soda and fruit juice with water, they would see immediate health benefits.

Soda, Health and Obesity