Healthy Drinks, Healthy Kids

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Heart Association have issued guidelines on healthy beverage choices for young children, in order to combat the scourge of obesity, caries and childhood diabetes.

All kids 5 and under

They should avoid drinking flavoured milks, toddler formulas, plant-based/non-dairy milks (unless a child is lactose intolerant or allergic to dairy products), caffeine beverages and sugar- and low-calorie sweetened beverages.

Infants 0-6 months

Only breast milk or infant formula.

Infants 6-12 months

Small amount of drinking water once solid foods are introduced.

Children 12-24 months

Whole milk. A small amount of 100% fruit juice is ok but eating whole fruits is even better.

Children 2-5 years

Children can now drink low-fat milk (1%). It is also recommended for children to drink water with their own free will. If parents want so, they can offer a small amount of juice, diluted with water.