The American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Heart Association, and other major health organizations have released new evidence-based guidelines recommending drinks for youth aged 5 to 18 years. The guidelines aim to improve overall health by limiting sugary beverages and promoting plain water and milk.
According to the recommendations, children should drink plain water and plain pasteurized milk daily, while limiting their intake of plant-based milk alternatives, flavored milks, and 100% fruit and vegetable juice. Sugar-sweetened beverages, beverages with no-sugar sweeteners, and those containing caffeine or other stimulants are recommended to be avoided entirely.
The guidelines also provide specific water intake recommendations: 16-40 ounces for children aged 5-8 years, 22-61 ounces for those aged 9-13 years, and 29-88 ounces for teenagers. Daily intakes of plain pasteurized milk should range from 20 to 24 ounces for children aged 9-18 years.
Plant-based milk alternatives are only recommended in certain situations, such as for individuals with dairy protein allergies or medical conditions. However, flavored milks and other sugary beverages should be avoided due to their high sugar content.
The guidelines were developed by a team of experts from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Heart Association, and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, and are intended to provide consistent messaging for health care providers and families. The recommendations have the potential to inform future policies, such as changes in product packaging or development, and could even influence school meal programs.
By promoting healthy drinking habits, these guidelines aim to support the overall well-being of young people and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Source: https://www.healio.com/news/primary-care/20250129/new-guidelines-recommend-plain-water-and-milk-for-youth-discourage-caffeine