The Right Kinds of Drinks for Kids

Choosing the right kinds of drinks for your kids can be a challenge. Sugary sodas and sports drinks are the most common, but there are many other healthy alternatives to choose from. You can find a variety of fruit-based beverages and milk alternatives at your local supermarket. Here are some healthy drinks to serve your children:

Caffeine in energy drinks

The amount of caffeine in energy drinks for kids is not always clear. Some contain 500 milligrams of caffeine per can, while others are less than that. Although energy drinks have many positive benefits, caffeine can have negative side effects, including disrupted sleep and anxiety. Additionally, many of them contain additives that may be dangerous for young consumers. For example, taurine and ginseng have been linked to increased heart rate, while yohimbine may be toxic.

Fruit juice is less nutritious than whole fruit

Research has found that fruit juice contains less fiber and less sugar per serving than whole fruit. Milk and water are far more nutritious. Fruit juice contains some vitamins and minerals but does not have nearly as much fiber as whole fruit. Parents should also avoid serving juices to kids within thirty minutes of eating. Nevertheless, juices are generally safe to serve to children in moderate amounts. In general, it’s best to serve juices at least one hour before meals.

Unsweetened tea

Children should be encouraged to drink unsweetened tea instead of soda or sugary soft drinks. Drinking tea contains antioxidants that can help prevent cancer. The added sugar from bottled tea can spike glucose levels, and one packet of sugar can be equal to almost an ounce of tea. The American Heart Association recommends six teaspoons of sugar per day. In addition to reducing sugar intake, tea also contains essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals.

Low-fat

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Good and Healthy Drinks for Kids

What are healthy drinks for kids? Besides water, kids can drink fruit juice, coconut water, and milk. You can get some ideas from these examples. If your child doesn’t like milk, you can get coconut water at the supermarket or from a friend. Just remember to get some milk before you bring your child to school. If you’re unsure of which one to get for your kid, ask the school principal. Several parents have had great results by giving their kids a glass of milk.

Water

Water is one of the most-healthy drinks for kids. It doesn’t contain any sugar, and it keeps your child hydrated. Besides, water is the best thirst quencher around. It also helps the brain and muscles stay hydrated. The best way to teach your children to drink water is to use interactive educational materials. To get started, check out the Action for Healthy Kids toolkit. You’ll find posters, activities, books, stickers, paper puppets, and a musical CD. You can also get additional information at their website.

Milk

Milk is a healthy drink for kids. It is a good source of calcium, vitamin D, and other nutrients for growing bodies. Milk is best consumed as a drink by children over one year of age. Avoid sugary and flavored varieties, as they contain extra sugar, fat, and calories. To make milk more palatable for toddlers, try enriched soy milk, which contains the same amount of calcium as cow’s milk.

Fruit juice

Parents should avoid giving their children sugary drinks. Sugary drinks can be harmful to the developing body, and juice is no exception. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children under the age of one drink no more than four ounces a day. Kids four to six should limit their juice intake to six ounces daily, … Read More