As Catholic parents, we are called to be stewards of our children’s well-being, which includes guiding them toward healthy choices in all aspects of life. One area of concern has become increasingly important: the beverages our children consume. Recently, a coalition of health and nutrition organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Heart Association, released new recommendations that are essential for our children’s health. These guidelines highlight the importance of limiting sugary, caffeinated, and artificially sweetened drinks in favor of water and plain milk.
The guidelines, which apply to children and teens ages 5 to 18, are based on a review of the latest scientific findings. According to Dr. Mark Corkins, chair of the American Academy of Pediatrics’ Committee on Nutrition, “the data tells us that one of the main avenues for added sugar intake in kids is beverages.” This statement underscores the importance of recognizing how easily sugary drinks can contribute to health problems in our young ones.
In recent years, there has been a surge in new beverages marketed toward children, including energy drinks and blended coffees. While these drinks may seem trendy, they often contain significant amounts of added sugars and caffeine, which pose potential risks to our children’s health. Megan Lott, deputy director of Healthy Eating Research, points out that “new research has shown us that even small amounts of caffeine can cause delayed sleep, increased amounts of depressive moods and anxiety, and other mental health issues that are really problematic for young teens.” She also mentions alarming “case studies of kids and teens coming into ERs who had cardiac events as a result of too much caffeine.”
As Catholics, we are called to care for our bodies, which are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Encouraging our children to consume beverages that promote physical health is an extension of this calling. Water and plain milk, which are naturally hydrating and nutrient-rich, are the best choices. Yet, many parents are now turning to plant-based milks as alternatives to cow’s milk. While these plant-based options may seem like a healthy choice, the expert panel behind the new recommendations urges caution. According to Dr. Corkins, many plant-based milks “have very little protein in them,” and in terms of nutrition, “they’re not even close” to cow’s milk. This highlights the importance of reading nutrition labels carefully to ensure that children receive the necessary nutrients for growth and development.
The question of artificial sweeteners also arises in the debate over children’s health. While they are often marketed as a way to reduce sugar intake, research on their long-term effects is still limited. Lott explains, “there’s just a lot we don’t know about these,” which is why the expert panel strongly recommends that children and teens avoid these sweetened beverages for now. The emerging research suggests that artificial sweeteners may not only fail to aid in weight maintenance but could also increase the risk of Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease in adults. Furthermore, these sweeteners may impact the gut microbiome, with potential negative consequences for overall health.
In promoting healthier choices, it is important to recognize the balance between good nutrition and the avoidance of harmful substances. We should aim to provide our children with beverages that nurture their physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. As Lott states, swapping just one sugary drink a day for water, or reducing caffeinated drinks, is “positive for your child’s health in the long run.” This small step reflects a larger commitment to raising children who value their health as a gift from God.
In closing, while it’s essential to allow children the occasional indulgence, it is our duty as parents to prioritize their health by guiding them away from sugary, caffeinated, and artificially sweetened drinks. We can ensure that they grow strong in both body and spirit by nurturing healthy habits, reinforcing our Catholic commitment to care for the whole person, and making choices that will foster long-term well-being.