Sugary drinks are not an alternative to water and are a significant contributing factor in weight gain. A 24 oz. Mountain Dew contains 330 calories and 87 grams (approximately 22 teaspoons) of sugar. Consider that some drivers might drink 2-3 of these or other soda drinks per day. This adds up to a lot of empty calories and sugar. Research shows that even diet drinks, though considered the lesser of two evils, are not good for you either. All of the man-made ingredients and artificial sweeteners of soda and diet soda are simply not good for you.
Another example is the product called “Vitamin Water” which boasts flavors that may mislead like “Defense,”“Energy,” and “Revive." This product offers minimal vitamins and minerals. It also offers 130 calories and 33 grams or 8.25 teaspoons of sugar for each 20 oz. bottle. Suggestion, take a multivitamin and wash it down with cool clear water!
Water - make it available to your drivers. Having water options available in the vending machines, making sure on-site water fountains are working, or even distributing water bottles with your company logo on them as a reminder to “fill up” are ways to raise their awareness. It is a well-known fact that the human body needs water for hydration. The amount of water needed for hydration varies by individual; but an attainable goal is 64 oz. of water throughout the day. Remember, sugary drinks are not an alternative to water and are a significant contributing factor in weight gain.
Encourage water as the primary beverage for your drivers. Remember that even mild dehydration can drain your energy and make you tired. Translate that for a professional driver and this means less alertness and awareness of what is happening with traffic while over the road. A healthy and hydrated driver is a safe driver!
Reprinted with permission from Great West Casualty Company
Need tips on how to conduct driver training? Contact our Risk Management Specialist today!
Larry Barton
Risk Management Specialist | Joe Morten & Son, Inc.
O: 865.392.3777 | C: 865.771.9506
This material is intended to be a broad overview of the subject matter and is provided for informational purposes only. Joe Morten & Son, Inc. does not provide legal advice to its insureds or other parties, nor does it advise insureds or other parties on employment-related issues, therefore the subject matter is not intended to serve as legal or employment advice for any issue(s) that may arise in the operations of its insureds or other parties. Legal advice should always be sought from legal counsel. Joe Morten & Son, Inc. shall have neither liability nor responsibility to any person or entity with respect to any loss, action, or inaction alleged to be caused directly or indirectly as a result of the information contained herein. Reprinted with permission from Great West Casualty Company.