|  | Family Health | Childrens Health

Juice Vs. Sports Drinks for Children

With the influx of beverages on the market, some of which tout seemingly miraculous claims, it can be overwhelming for health-conscious parents to decide which drinks are best for their children. You could just nix them all and opt for the healthiest beverage, which is water, but many picky children need something to sweet to please their palette.

  1. Sports Drinks: Pros

    • If you have an active child who's a dedicated athlete, serving him sports drinks during practice or games can be beneficial. These beverages contain carbohydrates (sugar), which provide a much-needed burst of energy during a time when the body needs it most. Additionally, sports drinks contain electrolytes like sodium and potassium, which quickly rehydrate the body, keeping the muscles lubricated.

    Sports Drink: Cons

    • Sport drinks are not beneficial for sedentary children or random athletes. The same sugars that provide a quick burst of energy to athletes during performances will just be stored in the body to later turn into fat. Without an immediate need for an energy and re-hydrating quick-fix, sports drinks no longer serve their purpose and actually turn into something negative.

    Juice: Pros

    • Juice is a popular choice for most kids, but you need to pay close attention to the labels when choosing which fruit juices to give your children. Only select those labeled 100 percent juice. These come without the additives that fruit-flavored juices or juice cocktails contain, and your child will get more vitamins and nutrients from 100 percent fruit juices as well.

    Juice: Cons

    • Even 100 percent juices can become a nutritional detriment to your child if he overindulges. Juice still contains calories, which can lead to obesity if too much is consumed. Follow these guidelines provided by the American Academy of Pediatrics to ensure you're not giving your child too much juice: 0-6 months: no juice unless it's to relieve constipation; 6-12 months: 4 ounces daily; 1-6 years: 6 ounces daily; 7 years and up: 12 ounces daily.

Childrens Health - Related Articles