2. Fizzy Drinks
Regular fizzy drinks contain multiple teaspoons of sugar per serving, and the regular consumption of excess sugar can lead to weight gain, obesity, type 2 diabetes and tooth decay. Coupled with the fact that kids can often crave sweet treats once they’ve been exposed to them, it’s simply not a good idea to give your kids fizzy drinks.
Even “diet” fizzy drinks are best avoided too, since they’re given a sweet taste using artificial sweeteners. A Harvard study in 2013 found a link between artificial sweeteners and weight gain. The researchers think this is down to the brain making us and our kids crave sweet foods after consuming ‘fake sweetness’ from artificial sweeteners.
Summary:
Fizzy drinks, including diet or low calorie versions, shouldn’t be given to children due to negative health affects including weight gain, a higher risk of developing lifestyle diseases and tooth loss. Water and diluted natural fruit juices are a better option.
