Sports drinks and those with lot of caffeine have
drawn criticism from the Canadian Paediatric Society with support from
Dieticians of Canada.
The issue is too much sugar and caffeine for young
people engaging in sports, they say in a position statement released this week.
“For most children and youth, sports drinks are
unnecessary,” said Dr. Catherine Pound, co-author of the statement and a
paediatrician at the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario in Ottawa.
“Energy drinks are unnecessary at best and dangerous
at worst. Doctors should counsel patients and their families about the
potential risks and side effects of using these beverages and should screen
routinely for their use,” she wrote.
Caffeinated energy drinks claim to boost energy,
reduce fatigue and improve concentration, but caffeine levels typically exceed
Health Canada’s maximum daily intake for children.
When mixed with alcohol, these drinks can be
especially dangerous.
Among university students, studies have shown an
association with risk-taking behaviours such as drug use.
Sports drinks, which contain a mixture of sugars and
electrolytes, are often marketed as fluid replacements during sports or
vigorous physical activity.
“Sports and caffeinated energy drinks may contribute
to obesity and dental cavities in children and adolescents,” said Becky Blair,
co-author of the statement and a member of Dietitians of Canada.
“When it comes to staying hydrated, water is the best
choice for kids.”
The Canadian Paediatric Society is lobbying for
legislation to ban marketing to youth.
