Pediatrics
Trial finds community program reduced BMI z-scores in children
Children in a community program to reduce sugary drinks had a greater 12-month reduction in BMI z-score than children in a comparison group.
A randomized trial found that school-age children in a community program focused on drinking fewer sugary beverages and more water had a significantly greater reduction in BMI z-score over 12 months than children in a comparison group. BMI z-score tracks BMI in growing children while accounting for age and sex.
The H₂GO. program involved 437 children ages 8 to 13 and a parent or caregiver at Boys & Girls Club sites across Massachusetts. Trained staff led 12 in-person group sessions. At the 12-month follow-up, children in the program reported reducing daily sugary-drink intake by an average of 3.6 ounces (106 milliliters) and increasing water intake by an average of 6.6 ounces (195 milliliters). The researchers said more research is needed, in part because drink intake was self-reported.
