Coca-Cola’s Vitaminwater makes bogus claims that their Vitaminwater “reduces risk of chronic disease, reduces risk of eye disease, promotes healthy joints, and supports immune function.”1 Marketing ploys in a time when two-thirds of Americans are overweight is downright wrong. Added sugars play a key role in the obesity epidemic and Vitaminwater contains 33 grams of sugar and 125 calories. Most consumers do not read the calorie content on bottled water; they presume it is just water with nutrients added; this false marketing is clearing in violation of the Jellybean rule. The Jellybean rule, according to the FDA, says foods low in fat, cholesterol, and sodium cannot claim to be “healthy” unless they contain at least 10 percent of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, protein, fiber, or iron. The FDA also made a policy that companies could not fortify foods with the sole intent of making that claim.2 Therefore, for good reason, the Center of Science in the Public Interest is suing Coca-cola in violation of consumer protection laws. (For more information on the lawsuit http://www.cspinet.org/new/201007231.html).
So, next time you are looking for something to drink grab some plain water or carbonated water and add some fruit: lemon, lime, orange, or grapefruit. Or, make an herbal infusion: 1/4 to 1/2 cup of your favorite herb -mint, chamomile, anise, or rooibos with four cups water and let it sit overnight. In addition, in a jar or pitcher of water finely grate ginger or boil sliced ginger and drink as a hot tea.
References:
Deb's Holistic Nutrition 