Think Smart about Drink Choices

Think Smart about Drink Choices

Water

  • Drink eight, 8-ounce glasses of water each day.
  • Drink more water when it is very warm or you are more physically active.
  • Keep a water bottle handy in the car, at home, work or school.
  • Drink water before, during and after physical activity.

Milk

  • Ages 1-2, drink two cups per day of whole milk.
  • Ages 2-8, drink two cups per day of fat-free or low-fat milk.
  • Age 9 and older, drink three cups per day of fat-free or low-fat milk.

Juice

  • Ages 1-6, limit juice to four to six ounces per day.
  • Ages 7-18 and adults, limit juice to no more than 1⁄2 the recommended servings of fruit per day.
  • Eat whole fruits, fresh, frozen, canned or dried, rather than juices to make sure you get enough fiber.

Soft Drinks

  • Drink smaller portions.
  • Drink diet soft drinks or tea sweetened with low-calorie sweeteners.
  • Limit sugar-sweetened drinks – sports drinks, Kool-aid®, sodas, etc.
  • Avoid energy drinks and caffeine.

Sports Drinks

  • Not recommended for most children.
  • Drink limited amounts for prolonged vigorous exercise. Drinking water before, during and after exercise is usually sufficient.