Parenting is complicated in modern times which is why it is great to have experts helping along the way.  These drink guidelines from pediatricians can help parents and caregivers guide their kids habits in the right way.

It is no secret that water is the best possible beverage of choice in just about any situation but when it comes to our kids, what is the best drinks and best intake of those drinks?

Well, Pediatricians Released New Drink Guidelines for Kids 5 and Under, Here’s What Parents Need to Know…

New Drink Guidelines for Kids 5 and Under

Recently, several major health organizations have come together to provide new beverage guidelines for kids 5 and under.

So, if you have a child or grandchild, these guidelines are worth knowing!

 A panel of experts from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the American Heart Association have put together the new guidelines which include:

  • 0-6 months: Breast milk or infant formula only; no fruit juice or other liquids of any kind.
  • 6-12 months: Breast milk or infant formula; small amounts of plain drinking water okay once solid foods are introduced; no fruit juice.
  • 12-24 months: Whole milk and plain drinking water; very limited 100% fruit juice on occasion.
  • 2-5 years: Skim or low-fat milk and plain drinking water; very limited 100% fruit juice on occasion.
Credit: Healthy Eating Research

“From the time children are born through those first few years, beverages are a significant source of calories and nutrients and can have a big impact on health long into the future,” said Richard Besser, MD, President and CEO of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. “Families deserve clear and consistent guidance on what their young children should drink and what they should avoid. These recommendations from our country’s leading medical and nutrition organizations will help families raise healthy children.”

Healthy Eating Research

Water is Best

Bottom line – little to no fruit juice and more water. Something I think we all should and can live by, right?

Do Not Drink Calories

Oh and in case you’re wondering, while this doesn’t specifically state no to other drinks like gatorade, sodas, etc. I am sure it covers that as well since those are known to be loaded with sugar!

The idea is that kids shouldn’t be drinking their calories (other than infants obviously) and intaking more water.

If you doubt what your child should be drinking, just remember breastmilk or formula until 1 and then as much water as possible ongoing.

Easy enough to remember, right?

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What do you think about the drink guidelines for kids?



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