The efficacy of two brief interventions to reduce soda consumption in a college population

Sugar-sweetened soda consumption has been found to be associated with a host of medical problems such as obesity, diabetes and osteoporosis. Despite these risks, soda remains a popular beverage among American, particularly adolescents and young adults. The present study investigates the efficacy of a brief intervention to reduce soda consumption in a college population. Three hundred and three participants were randomly assigned to one of three conditions; an intervention where they were presented with information on either obesity risks or health risks associated with soda consumption or a control group that received no risk information. Soda consumption was assessed at baseline and one month later. Other variables such as height, weight, body image concern and health beliefs were also assessed. Results indicated a significant decrease in soda consumption of approximately sixteen ounces over time for all participants, regardless of condition. No significant differences emerged for any of the conditions in terms of reduced soda intake. Additional analyses also found no influence of health beliefs or body image concern on reduction in consumption. Results did suggest participants were more motivated to eliminate soda consumption at time two. Reasons as to why the interventions were not significant and future directions are also discussed.