Sugary Drinks are a Big Problem for Little Kids

The First 5 L-A report also addresses the dental decay young children experience as a result of sugary drinks. Oaxaca says tooth decay is the nation's most common childhood chronic illness.

"Not only that - it also is actually responsible for almost 900,000 missed days of school by children throughout the state of California, just because of issues related to tooth decay."

The report offers several recommendations, including a sugary beverage tax of one penny per ounce, with the revenue used for obesity-prevention programs. Also, First 5 LA is suggesting an end to the sale of sugary drinks at local, state and federal government facilities, including parks or playgrounds used by families with young children.