Pediatricians Warn Against Energy and Sports Drinks

A new clinical report from the American Academy of Pediatrics warns parents against allowing their children to overly indulge in energy and sports drinks.  The study warns that energy drinks usually contain large amounts of caffeine and other stimulants that interfere with sleep, raise anxiety, and increase the risk of dehydration.

Although they do not usually contain caffeine, the study also warns against frequent consumption of sports drinks such as Gatorade because of the high sugar content, over consumption of which can lead to obesity and tooth decay.  Pediatricians recommend that parents only allow their children to have these beverages when they’re actually needed it, such as during athletic events.

Read more on NPR:

http://www.npr.org/blogs/health/2011/05/31/136722667/pediatricians-warn-against-energy-and-sports-drinks-for-kids?ps=sh_sthdl