Los Angeles considers ban on large sodas at parks and libraries
High-fructose corn syrup, a common sweetener found in soft drinks, has been found to interfere with memory and learning, according to a study published on May 15, 2012.
Los Angeles is considering a ban on big sodas at parks and libraries, both important spots for children.
The city joins New York City and Cambridge, Mass in a possible ban on big sugary drinks.
ABC affiliate KABC in Los Angeles reported local Councilman Mitchell Englander proposed the ban to the city's Arts, Parks, Health & Aging Committee on Tuesday.
"The idea is to make sure we have healthy choices in our vending machines that are in our park and recreational facilities," said Englander. "This is the place where children are located, often unsupervised, where they go to the vending machines. Oftentimes, it's out of water and healthy choices and the only thing that's left are sugary, sweetened drinks."
New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg wants to ban on the sale of large sugary beverages over 16 ounces in his hometown at restaurant, movie theaters and other venues.
The mayor of Cambridge, Mass. made a similar proposal earlier this week.
More from GlobalPost: Large soda ban proposed by mayor in Cambridge, Mass., follows NYC
CBS News reported the American Medical Association said it supports taxes on sugar-sweetened beverage and that they make up half of American's added sugar intake.
"Where taxes are implemented on sugar-sweetened beverages, using revenue for anti-obesity programs and educational campaigns explaining the adverse effects of excessive consumption of these beverages will help to reduce the consumption of these caloric beverages and improve public health," said AMA board member Dr. Alexander Ding, said in a statement on Wednesday.
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