IntroductionFor children, tap water is the preferred drink to quench thirst and it should be encouraged regularly throughout the day. Often children prefer sweet tasting fluids; however sugary drinks such as fruit juice, soft drink or cordial are not necessary and may cause health problems if drunk in large amounts.
Sweet drinks include all fruit juices, soft drinks, energy drinks, cordials, flavoured mineral waters and sports drinks either bought or home-made. Fruit juices contain sugars that are found naturally in fresh fruits, but become very concentrated when made into juice.
Children do not require any fruit juices or other sweet drinks to have a well-balanced and healthy diet. If children have sweet drinks as part of their diet, this should be limited to one small glass per day, preferably watered down.
Drinking large amounts of sweet drinks may result in excess weight gain; tooth decay; picky eating; growth problems; and loose bowel actions.
Milk is important for children as it contains calcium needed for healthy bones and other key nutrients for growth and development. While milk is important, too much can lead to poor appetite. No more than three cups per day is suggested.
To keep hydrated, children should aim to have five cups of fluid each day. Lack of water can cause dehydration which leads to fatigue, headaches and poorer learning and thinking ability.
Drinking tap water helps kidneys work to wash away body wastes, and it often contains fluoride for healthy teeth. Children need to drink water before getting thirsty and drink more water on hot days and during sport or physical activity.
