A new set of guidelines on children's beverage consumption has been released, emphasizing the importance of proper hydration and nutrition. This collaborative effort involved the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Heart Association, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. The recommendations aim to guide parents and caregivers on the best options for children's health as they grow.
The guidelines suggest that children primarily consume water and pasteurized milk. Water, in particular, is highlighted as the best choice for children engaging in routine physical activity for less than three hours or high-intensity activities lasting up to one hour in normal weather conditions. As children’s hydration needs vary by age, the document outlines specific water intake recommendations: 40 ounces for those aged 5 to 8, 61 ounces for children 9 to 13, and 88 ounces for teenagers aged 14 to 18.
In terms of milk consumption, children aged 5 to 8 should have up to 20 ounces daily, while those aged 9 to 18 can enjoy up to 24 ounces. The guidelines note that plant-based milk alternatives should only be consumed in limited amounts. These alternatives are recommended specifically for children allergic to dairy or those who do not consume dairy products. In such cases, fortified soy milk or nutritionally similar options like pea protein-based milk are advised.
“Plant-based milk alternatives are only recommended if a child is allergic to dairy or does not eat dairy products. In these cases, fortified soy milk or plant-based milk alternatives that are nutritionally similar to cow’s milk, like those made from pea proteins, are recommended in place of dairy milk,” said a spokesperson from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
The guidelines also emphasize the need to limit caffeine intake for children. Those under the age of 12 should avoid caffeine entirely. For adolescents aged 13 to 18, a maximum of 100 milligrams per day is recommended. The document points out that increased caffeine consumption has been linked to various adverse effects, including cardiovascular events and negative impacts on sleep quality and mental health.
“With increased intake has come an increase in case reports of adolescents experiencing adverse effects, the most concerning of which include cardiovascular events. Recent research also demonstrates significant negative impacts on sleep quality and patterns, dietary intake and patterns, and mental health,” noted a representative involved in the study.
Parents are also advised about fruit and vegetable juice consumption. A small serving of up to 8 ounces of 100% juice is acceptable but not necessary for children's growth and development. This recommendation aligns with the overarching goal of encouraging children to prioritize water as their primary beverage.
The guidelines advocate avoiding sweetened drinks, which are linked to a reduced risk of diseases such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, and dental issues like cavities. The project was funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and organized by Healthy Eating Research to summarize the latest scientific evidence regarding beverage consumption among children.
“However, this recommendation is hard to operationalize given that caffeine content is not required to be disclosed on nutrition labels,” emphasized an expert involved in drafting the guidelines.
Athletes may require sports drinks under specific circumstances, such as during prolonged or intense activities or in hot weather. However, these drinks should not become a regular part of a child's diet without a valid reason.
Leave a Reply