Many parents and children mistakenly think that sports drinks and energy drinks are the same, when, in fact, they are not. Sports drinks are drinks such as Gatorade, Powerade, and others. Sports drinks contain electrolytes and water and carbohydrates that replenish the body during vigorous sports activities. Sports drinks can be used safely by children and adolescents.
Energy drinks are drinks such as Red Bull, Jolt, and others. Energy drinks contain caffeine, sugar, and other ingredients that are unhealthy for a growing child. Such drinks can increase the jittery effects of caffeine, cause nausea, diarrhea, and other symptoms that could be potentially dangerous.
Energy drinks are not regulated as strictly as alcohol, tobacco, and prescription medications, but they should be. The journal, Pediatrics, advocates stricter guidelines for regulating the ingredients in energy drinks.Hydration is necessary after vigorous sports activities. Plain water for hydration is a safe choice. Children playing sports don’t necessarily need something extra to avoid dehydration. Children who play sports can get the needed nutrition and hydration by consuming healthy food and drinking a plentiful supply of water before, during and after sports activities.
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