AAP report recommends water as primary source of hydration for children, adolescents

In a strongly worded recommendation, a new report by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) issued May 31st advises that children and adolescents should not be given energy drinks or sodas with caffeine. The report also states that children should only be given sports drinks that contain electrolytes on a limited basis when engaged in "prolonged vigorous sports activity."  Instead, the report recommends that water should be the primary source of hydration for children and adolescents.

The AAP report states: "Children and adolescents should be taught to drink water routinely as an initial beverage of choice ... Water is also generally the appropriate first choice for hydration before, during, and after most exercise regimens. Children should have free access to water, particularly during school hours."

For children who do not like the plain taste of water, nutritionists recommend flavoring water with lemon or True Lemon. True Lemon is crystallized lemon, made from real lemons and 100% natural ingredients which comes in convenient packets that children can take with them on-the-go, and can help them drink more water.  In fact, an independent survey by a major university found a 61 percent increase in water consumption with daily True Lemon use.

"True Citrus is real, crystallized lemon, lime and orange that adds just enough natural flavor to help make sure kids drink the water their bodies need," said Diane Henderiks, R.D., nutritionist and chef. "True Lemon has no carbs, no sugar, no caffeine, no calories, no artificial colors or sweeteners, no gluten, no sodium and no preservatives. It's definitely a product parents can feel very comfortable giving to their children."