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What’s more, drinking enough water is linked to healthy body weight, reduced risk of dental cavities, and improved brain function in children ( 3). However, it’s important to carefully read the label when purchasing coconut water, as some brands contain added sugars and artificial flavors. Caffeine can cause jitteriness, rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, anxiety, and sleep disturbances in kids, which is why beverages containing caffeine should be restricted based on age ( 29, 30).
Sweetened beverages are linked to an increased risk of illnesses, such as type 2 diabetes and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, in children ( 18, 19). While some herbal teas are considered safe for children, it’s important to consult with your pediatrician before giving your child any herbal teas.
Chamomile has also been used as a natural treatment for intestinal symptoms — including nausea, gas, diarrhea, and indigestion — in both children and adults ( 15).
Professional associations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend that juice be limited to 4–6 ounces (120–180 ml) per day for children aged 1–6 and 8–12 ounces (236–355 ml) per day for children aged 7–18.For example, chamomile and lemongrass teas have long been used to calm and soothe both children and adults with anxiety ( 14). However, I’d like to point out that many energy drinks are indeed healthy by most definitions of the word. Even though many children prefer sweetened milk drinks like chocolate or strawberry milk, plain, unsweetened milk makes the healthiest choice for kids. A 12-ounce (354-ml) serving of regular Coca-Cola contains 39 grams of sugar — or almost 10 teaspoons ( 17). While many parents tend to give children fat-free milk, milk with a higher fat content may be healthier for younger children, as fat is needed for proper brain development and overall growth ( 8).