Soda Tax Proposed to Curb Childhood Obesity Pediatricians are concerned about kids consuming too many sugary drinks and increasing their risk of Type 2 diabetes and obesity. The American Academy of Pediatrics is endorsing strategies designed to minimize children's consumption of these beverages. These strategies include taxes on sugary drinks, limits on soft drink marketing and financial incentives to encourage healthier choices. Natalie Muth, Pediatrician, via NPR Children and teens are consuming 17% of their daily calories from added sugar, with half of those calories coming from drinks. Kids consume 12 ounces of sugary drinks per day. The heart association recommends no more than 8 ounces per week.