Rising food prices have many shoppers looking for budget-friendly options that support good health. If this sounds familiar, read on.
We can expect the number and variety of drinks in the grocery store to continue to grow – including drinks for kids. Companies promote these products using marketing strategies that attract parents (and sometimes kids) with claims that may be misleading. This can result in wasteful spending, and in some cases, unhealthy choices.
To prevent this from happening, we have a few suggestions*:
- Stay clear of drinks that include additives such as pre- and probiotics, herbs, or nutrition supplements. There is little evidence about the safety and potential benefits of these products. Also, some have stimulants that can be harmful to children.
- Skip sports drinks and other products that make claims about improved athletic performance, endurance, and/or recovery. Plain water and a balanced diet can replace fluid and electrolyte losses from sweating.
- Avoid drinks (and drink powders) formulated for toddlers. Many of these products claim to help young children transition from breastmilk and infant formula. According to the American Pediatric Association, these drinks are not necessary for most toddlers and should not replace a balanced diet.
By making these changes, a family can easily save hundreds of dollars each year. Visit our website for healthy, low-cost drink recipes your family will love.
*Some children have unique needs. These suggestions are not meant to substitute for advice from a medical professional.
This article was written Jamie Benedict, Ph.D, R.D.N, L.D. If you have a suggestion for a topic for the Insider, write to rethinkyourdrinknevada@unr.edu and receive a free, healthy drink recipe book.
