Sports drinks and energy drinks for children and adolescents: Are they appropriate?

Marcie Beth Schneider, Holly J. Benjamin, Jatinder J.S. Bhatia, Steven A. Abrams, Sarah D. De Ferranti, Janet Silverstein, Nicolas Stettler, Dan W. Thomas, Stephen R. Daniels, Frank R. Greer, Teri M. McCambridge, Joel Brenner, Charles T. Cappetta, Rebecca A. Demorest, Mark E. Halstead, Chris G. Koutures, Cynthia R. LaBella, Michele LaBotz, Keith J. Loud, Stephanie S. MartinAmanda K. Weiss-Kelly, Michael Begeron, Andrew Gregory, Stephen G. Rice

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

295 Scopus citations

Abstract

Sports and energy drinks are being marketed to children and adolescents for a wide variety of inappropriate uses. Sports drinks and energy drinks are significantly different products, and the terms should not be used interchangeably. The primary objectives of this clinical report are to define the ingredients of sports and energy drinks, categorize the similarities and differences between the products, and discuss misuses and abuses. Secondary objectives are to encourage screening during annual physical examinations for sports and energy drink use, to understand the reasons why youth consumption is widespread, and to improve education aimed at decreasing or eliminating the inappropriate use of these beverages by children and adolescents. Rigorous review and analysis of the literature reveal that caffeine and other stimulant substances contained in energy drinks have no place in the diet of children and adolescents. Furthermore, frequent or excessive intake of caloric sports drinks can substantially increase the risk for overweight or obesity in children and adolescents. Discussion regarding the appropriate use of sports drinks in the youth athlete who participates regularly in endurance or high-intensity sports and vigorous physical activity is beyond the scope of this report.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1182-1189
Number of pages8
JournalPediatrics
Volume127
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 2011
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Caffeine
  • Energy drinks
  • Obesity
  • Sport drinks

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Child Health

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