Sports drinks are designed and marketed for exercise. They were initially developed to replace fluid and electrolytes for elite athletes who were training and competing in hot climates. Now, many kids are drinking these, but do they need them? Keep reading to learn more.
Sports drinks usually have 3 main ingredients:
- Water for hydration
- Sugar for energy
- Electrolytes to replace losses from sweat
The electrolytes and sugar found in sports drinks can also be found in fruits and vegetables, such as bananas, oranges and tomatoes.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, most kids get enough electrolytes from eating a well-balanced diet, and sports drinks offer no advantage over plain water. In addition, a typical 12-ounce sports drink has about five teaspoons of added sugar. Many kids consume too much added sugar. That can lead to cavities, unhealthy weight gain, diabetes and heart disease.
So, why are sports drinks popular with kids? Part of the answer may be how and where they are marketed. By posting appealing ads for sports drinks on sites that are likely to be viewed by children, particularly teens, companies create interest in their products. As a result, their sales increase.
Hydration is important, particularly when kids are active. Generally, drinking water before, during and after sports is sufficient. Sports drinks usually aren’t needed unless your child has been exercising for long periods of time or in very hot weather.
If your kids like flavored water, try making it at home, using one of . They are low-cost, easy to make and kid approved!
This article was written and reviewed by Rethink Your Drink Nevada’s team of dietetic professionals. To learn more about making healthier drink choices, , . To suggest a newsletter topic, write to RethinkYourDrinkNevada@unr.edu, and receive a free, healthy drink recipe book.
Chenin Treftz Nickel, Ph.D., R.D., is a nutrition research scientist with Rethink Your Drink, a program offered by the College of Agriculture, Biotechnology & Natural Resources' Department of Nutrition in collaboration with .
The program is funded by USDA’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program — SNAP. SNAP provides nutrition assistance to people with low income. It can help you buy nutritious foods for a better diet. To find out more, contact 800-992-0900.
