Consumption of Sugar-Sweetened Beverages in Paediatric Age: A Position Paper of the European Academy of Paediatrics and the European Childhood Obesity Group.

BACKGROUND

Health risks associated with the high consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) include overweight or obesity and their complications such as diabetes, as well as oral and dental decay, among others.

AIM

The aim of the present statement is to inform health care professionals, parents, care-givers, teachers and school head teachers, stakeholders and governing bodies about the risks associated with drinking SSBs in infants, children and adolescents.

METHODS

We searched PubMed and the Cochrane databases for English language studies published from 2010 through October 1, 2018, for randomized clinical trials, meta-analyses, systematic reviews and observational studies (search terms are reported in eAppendix in the Supplement). We also manually searched the references of selected articles, reviews, meta-analyses and practice guidelines.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Consumption of SSB by children and adolescents should be limited, and the consumption of water and other non-sweetened beverages should be promoted. Educational institutions such as nurseries, pre-schools and schools should offer unlimited access to drinking water, whereas the sale of SSBs should be banned.