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Are Sugary Drinks Recommended for Children?
A structured overview of what credible sources and parent perspectives commonly say about this topic.
Quick answer
Sugary drinks are beverages with added sugars, such as sodas and sweetened fruit juices. The CDC recommends limiting these for children aged 2 and older because they contribute excess added sugar and can displace healthier options. Alternatives include water, milk, and whole fruits.
At a glance
Things to try now
What to do now
- 1Remove sugary drinks from easy reach and replace them with water or milk.
- 2Offer a small cup of 100% fruit juice diluted with water instead of sweetened drinks.
- 3Encourage children to drink water regularly throughout the day.
What to say
- “Let's have some water to keep you strong and healthy!”
- “Juice is a special treat, so we only have a little bit today.”
- “Water helps you feel good and gives you energy to play!”
What to practice consistently
- Make water the default drink at meals and snacks.
- Read nutrition labels together to identify added sugars in drinks.
- Create a routine of drinking water before and after physical activity.
What to avoid
- Using sugary drinks as rewards or comfort.
- Offering sugary drinks frequently throughout the day.
- Allowing unlimited access to fruit juice or sweetened beverages.
These are common approaches mentioned in sources and by parents. They are informational, not prescriptive.
What this usually involves
- Sugary drinks include sodas, fruit drinks with added sugars, sports drinks, and sweetened teas.
- Fruit juice, while natural, can be high in sugar and should be limited to small amounts.
- The CDC recommends a diet emphasizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy instead of sugary drinks.
- Limiting sugary drinks helps reduce added sugar intake, which supports healthy weight and dental health.
- Encouraging children to drink water and milk supports hydration and nutrition without added sugars.
Related questions
100% fruit juice contains natural sugars and can be part of a healthy diet if limited to small amounts, as excessive consumption contributes to added sugar intake.
Water, low-fat or fat-free milk, and small amounts of 100% fruit juice diluted with water are commonly recommended healthy alternatives.
Focus on offering whole fruits, limiting processed snacks and sugary drinks, and involving children in food preparation to encourage healthy eating habits.
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From around the web
Sugary Drinks and Kids: How Much is Too Much?
Discusses the impact of sugary drinks on children's health and offers guidance on limiting intake.
American Academy of Pediatrics
Limiting Sugar-Sweetened Beverages for Children
Provides recommendations on reducing sugary drink consumption among children.
CDC
Healthy Drinks for Kids
Outlines healthy beverage choices for children and the importance of limiting sugary drinks.
NICHD
Healthy Eating for Toddlers and Preschoolers
Offers practical advice on nutrition and healthy eating habits for young children.
Nemours KidsHealth