Ever hear the expression “too good to be true”? Sadly, when things sound too good to be true, they usually are.  That’s why we thought we’d share a recent opinion piece about the ongoing debate over obesity in this country.

The column appeared on CNN.com earlier this week by Dr. Aaron Carroll, a professor at the Indiana University School of Medicine and health blogger. He argues that despite the media hype and sensational headlines about the waistline of our country’s population - when it comes down to it, weight management is a very personal issue. And importantly, there is no silver bullet.

As Dr. Carroll discusses, for every study or report promising “best results if…,” there is a counter point disproving it. So, how is a person to wade through all of the reports, all of the hype, all of the science and find the right source to listen to? As Dr. Carroll suggests, perhaps the best source is oneself:

“I don't tell you this because I think this is what you should do, or because I think it's the key to getting thinner. I tell you this because more and more, I think that the journey to sustained weight loss is a very personal and individual path. Perhaps our problem is we're trying to find a one-size-fits-all solution. I'm not sure that exists.”

Here at Sip & Savor, we’re big on personal choice and we agree with Dr. Carroll’s approach. So, when some policymakers promise a healthier population through taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages, it leaves us scratching our heads.  The fact is one-size-fits-all solutions, such as a regressive tax on one product and one small source of calories in the diet, will do nothing to combat obesity. As we’ve said before, taxes don’t make people healthy.

Importantly, we’re working to educate consumers by providing clear calorie labels on the front of every can, bottle and pack we produce, so you know what’s inside before you buy. And, our member companies offer myriad low- and no-calorie options so you can enjoy a beverage that’s right for you every time.