Betsy Carmien, RDN, LD, clinical dietitian, Parkview Health, takes us through the guidelines for pediatric hydration, including which beverages are best for those five and younger.
Watch the video: Nourishing Knowledge: Pediatric hydration
Research shows that what children drink from birth to five years of age can have a big impact on their health. With so many choices on the market, it can be confusing for parents to make the right choice.
Children under the age of five should avoid drinking all sweetened beverages such as juice, as well as caffeinated beverages. These are sources of added sugar and provide no unique nutritional value.
Beverages by age
Age: 0–5 months
Beverages:
- breast milk
- infant formula
Age: 6– 12 months
Beverages:
- breast milk
- infant formula
- small amounts of water
Age: 1 year
Beverages:
- breast milk
- infant formula
- small amounts of water
- introduce whole milk
- juice (less than 4 ounces/day)
Once solid foods are introduced, parents can also introduce whole milk. Whole milk provides essential nutrients for brain development. Continue to provide water for hydration.
If you decide to offer juice, dilute it with some water and limit consumption to less than 4 ounces per day. Keep in mind that whole fruit is always better than juice.
Age: 2–5 years
Beverages:
- water
- low fat or skim milk
- juice (less than 4 ounces/day)
If you have any additional questions regarding nutrition, please reach out to your doctor to obtain a referral to see a dietitian.
