When it comes to making healthy choices for your children, nutritious foods are probably the first to come to mind. Yet, the beverages you give your children are just as important as the snacks and meals they consume. Pediatricians and children’s dentists alike have warned against the dangers of soda for many years now. Discover some compelling arguments against serving soft drinks to children, below.

Top Reasons to Avoid Giving Your Children Soda

1. It’s Linked to Weight Gain

Soda is void of nutritional value, yet high in added sugars and calories. Some types have as many as 200 calories, and that’s just for one serving. Children 8 and under need fewer than 1,500 calories per day, and excess calorie consumption can lead to weight gain and obesity. Overweight children are more likely to develop serious health issues like high blood pressure and cholesterol and type 2 diabetes. Instead of consuming hundreds of empty calories with soda, children should drink water and have healthy meals consisting of lean proteins, vegetables, whole grains, and fruit.

2. It’s High in Caffeine

While it is not recommended for children to have any caffeine, soda contains up to 55 mg per serving. Consumption of the stimulant should be minimal for adults; but for young children, doing so is even more important. It doesn’t take much caffeine to cause health issues like accelerated heart rate, higher blood pressure, and an upset stomach. Difficulty concentrating and sleeping may also occur in children. Caffeine has addictive properties, and stopping it abruptly could produce withdrawal symptoms.   

3. It Causes Tooth Decay

Children’s dentists see the damage caused by soda firsthand, as cavities are a direct result of drinking the sugary beverage. When sugar is introduced to the mouth, it blends with naturally occurring bacteria and creates harmful acids. These acids produce bacterial infections which ultimately cause holes in the teeth, also known as cavities. Even in baby teeth, cavities left unaddressed can extend beyond the enamel, leading to painful infections. While children’s dentists can usually fill cavities before they worsen, those that go untreated can lead to tooth loss and a need for more invasive treatments.

As a caring children’s dentist in the Florence, KY, area, Bert E. Bathiany IV, DMD is committed to helping young patients maintain healthy teeth and gums. He and his gentle hygienists offer preventive services such as sealants to help minimize the risk of cavities. They can also give you tips—like avoiding soda—to further improve the oral health of your little one. Schedule a cleaning for your child in the dentist’s Florence office by calling (859) 525-2100; or, reach the Ft. Thomas, KY, location at (859) 781-4100. You can also learn more about their services by visiting the practice online.