An analysis of beverage intake data over three decades from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES 1976-1980, 1988-1994 and 2001-2006) found that milk was the primary contributor of calories and nutrients such as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and potassium in children ages <1 to 5. However, in 2001 to 2006, significantly fewer children consumed milk than in earlier years.
Results for other beverages indicated that in recent years there was a dramatic increase in children consuming fruit juice. Overall, 100 percent fruit juice contributed 8 to 10 percent of calories as well as important amounts of potassium and magnesium. Fruit drink consumption remained fairly stable and contributed 8 to 10 percent of calories but less than 5 percent of nutrients examined. The percentage of young children consuming soft drinks in recent years increased with age. By the age of 1 year, 19 percent consumed soft drinks; by age 5, 45 percent did. Overall, soft drinks provided 5 to 6 percent of calories, but none of the nutrients examined.
To improve the diet quality of young children, the authors recommend encouraging parents, educators and child caretakers to replace some of the nutrient-poor beverages young children currently consume with more nutrient-dense choices, such as low-fat and fat-free milk.
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