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Whether it’s the highly trained athlete or the casual runner, more consumers are turning to beverages to support their workout regimens. According to Chicago-based Mintel’s January report “Nutritional and Performance Drinks – US,” dollar sales of these drinks reached $11.5 billion in 2014.

Obesity rates have more than doubled in adults and children since the 1970s, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Approximately 78.6 million adults are overweight or obese, with 12.7 million children and adolescents in the same category.

It’s August, and that means for many families it’s time to get ready for back to school. Parents are stocking up on hand sanitizer, tissues and cold medicine in preparation for the germs their kids might come in contact with.

Consumers are increasingly looking for functionality in their beverages. Beverage manufacturers are developing products that will appeal to consumers’ needs and wants including health, strength, energy and relaxation.

Casks, oak-barrel aging and complex full-bodied flavor is synonymous with wine. But craft brewers are changing that. Today, craft beer brewers are doing more with exotic ingredients and time-honored processes typically reserved for grapes.

Remember when nothing said summer like sitting on Grandma's porch and sipping a tall glass of ice-cold lemonade? The pure sourness and simple ingredients made taste buds dance.

Consumers are becoming more interested in the quality and nutritional benefits of the beverages and foods they are choosing. Fiber, in particular, is becoming a popular wellness ingredient because consumers are aware of its multifaceted benefits, especially for digestive health.

When observing the actions of children, it might not be uncommon for adults to remark, “I wish I had that much energy.” Athletes also can be inspiring figures in relation to knowing how to maintain higher energy levels. In the beverage market, sports and energy drink brand owners commonly have turned to these athletes as brand ambassadors for their products.

Health concerns are a major issue for many people. The United States’ first lady Michelle Obama has headed up the Let’s Move program to educate consumers about “America’s Move to Raise a Healthier Generation of Kids.” Her efforts also have led to trying to get more adults and children involved in healthier food and beverage choices.

An estimated 5.2 million Americans suffer from Alzheimer’s disease, and although the majority are older than 65, younger-onset Alzheimer’s impacted 200,000 people last year, according to the Alzheimer’s Association, Chicago.