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Risks of Giving Sugary Drinks to Infants
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 soda, fruit-flavored drinks, and sweetened juices. Giving these to infants can cause tooth decay, displace nutritious foods, and contribute to unhealthy weight gain. Alternatives include water, breast milk, or formula for infants.
At a glance
Things to try now
What to do now
- 1Remove sugary drinks from the infant's environment to reduce temptation.
- 2Offer water or breast milk/formula when the infant is thirsty.
- 3Read labels to avoid beverages with added sugars when shopping.
What to say
- “Let's have some water now to keep your body healthy and strong.”
- “Milk helps your teeth and bones grow big and strong, so let's drink some milk.”
- “Sweet drinks can hurt your teeth, so we save those for special times when you're older.”
What to practice consistently
- Establish consistent routines that include healthy drink options.
- Model drinking water and milk as a family habit.
- Gradually reduce any sugary drink offerings if currently given.
What to avoid
- Using sugary drinks as a comfort or reward.
- Allowing infants to fall asleep with bottles containing sugary liquids.
- Offering juice or sweetened drinks in bottles or sippy cups throughout the day.
These are common approaches mentioned in sources and by parents. They are informational, not prescriptive.
What this usually involves
- Sugary drinks contain added sugars that provide calories but little to no nutritional value.
- Infants' developing teeth are vulnerable to cavities caused by sugar exposure.
- Sugary drinks can reduce appetite for nutrient-rich foods and breast milk or formula.
- Early exposure to sweetened beverages may establish a preference for sweet tastes.
- Excess sugar intake is linked to increased risk of obesity and metabolic issues later in childhood.
Related questions
The AAP recommends avoiding fruit juice for infants under 12 months and limiting it to no more than 4 ounces per day for toddlers aged 1 to 3 years.
Breast milk or formula is best for infants under 12 months; water can be introduced after 6 months in small amounts.
Avoid giving sugary drinks, do not put infants to bed with bottles containing anything other than water, and maintain good oral hygiene from the first tooth.
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Giving Juice and Sugary Drinks to Infants: What Parents Should Know
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Guidelines on Giving Juice and Sugary Drinks to Infants
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Healthy Drink Options for Infants
For infants, the healthiest drink option is breast milk or infant formula, which provide essential nutrients for growth and development. Water can be introduced in small amounts after six months, but sugary drinks and excessive fruit juice should be avoided to prevent added sugar intake and dental issues.
From around the web
Fruit Juice in Infants and Toddlers
Guidelines on fruit juice consumption for young children and its risks.
American Academy of Pediatrics
Sugary Drinks and Childhood Obesity
Information on how sugary drinks contribute to childhood obesity and health risks.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Oral Health Tips for Infants and Toddlers
Advice on preventing tooth decay in young children.
National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research