Recently, we’ve been writing a lot about the need for a closer look at the hard science behind headline-grabbing studies that have more sensationalist claims than factual ones. This so-called "science by press release" might make for eye-catching headlines, but it is reckless and distracts from concrete, peer-reviewed and reputably published works that may not be flashy but are - more importantly - credible.

The subject of some of these splashy "studies" has been alleged “food addiction.” Indeed, some health activists have been pointing the finger at certain foods and beverages, including soft drinks, calling them "addictive" and blaming them as unique contributors to obesity. But, in a recent research review from the UK's University of Cambridge, researchers more closely examined the supposed link between food addiction and the obesity epidemic.

According to a science brief from the European Food Information Council, the Cambridge researchers found that evidence for the so-called food addiction is “limited,” and that there are real problems with using the “addiction” model to examine and combat obesity. The brief states:

“…there is inconsistent evidence to support a direct link between food addiction and obesity. Moreover, the food addiction model currently has limitations for studying obesity.”

The researchers also draw out some common sense but often overlooked facts: that obesity is a complex, multi-factorial problem. “Overeating," the science brief explains, “may be too complex to get a consistent result from these studies, and that the many genetic and environmental factors which contribute to obesity need to be considered in the future.”

What we do know and what has been proven time and time again is that to maintain weight, all calories consumed must balance out with calories expended. This standard has been embraced both by science and common sense. Calorie balance might not make the front page, or be particularly newsworthy, but it’s a fundamentally important aspect of a healthy lifestyle.

That’s why we’re making it easier to choose the beverage that’s right for you and your family every time. For more information information, visit www.DeliveringChoices.org.