Liquids a Forgotten Calorie Contributor, Study Shows

NEW YORK -- A new study by the Milk Processor Education Program found that beverages make up 22% of calories in the average American's diet. However, most aren't aware of it and instead are more concerned with the caloric content of solid foods. The "What America Drinks" report found that every day, Americans drink about 17.5 ounces of sweetened soft drinks and teas. Within that number, researchers determined that soft drinks specifically made up nearly 6.5% percent of total caloric intake, though it's even higher for teenagers. Male teens received roughly 10% percent of their daily calories from sodas and other sweetened beverages, while female teens consumed about 9%. Consumption rates for other beverages were lesser: Overall, Americans received 7.5% of their daily calories from milk. The good news is that consumers made calorie-free water their beverage of choice. On average, Americans drink 38 ounces of water daily, the study found.