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High Energy Drinks
Do Kids Really Need Caffeine?
By Melissa Granberry
He recommends that during physical activity, kids consume fluids (water or sports drink) at regular intervals, such as every 20 minutes. "Children should consume 5 to 9 ounces on these occasions, smaller volumes for kids who weigh less than 88 pounds, more for kids who weigh more than 132 pounds," he says.
Murray emphasizes the importance of voluntary drinking to help keep hydrated. "It is well established that light flavoring and sweetness are two important characteristics in driving voluntary fluid intake," he says. So if your child doesn't want "plain" water, try a flavored water or sports drink. "Voluntary drinking is the front-line defense against dehydration," he says.
You may notice your child's school cafeteria restocking the soda machines with milk-based carbonated drinks. Though these beverages provide more nutrients than a soft drink, having regular milk (or even chocolate-flavored milk) is a better option.
Mitchell questions what replacing one carbonated drink for another is teaching our kids. "Children need to learn to eat 'real' food rather than 'processed,'" Mitchell says.
And Mitchell's thoughts on high-energy drinks for children? "This is sending a message to our kids that you need special drinks to have energy, when really you need to eat healthy food."
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