Can I give my baby Gatorade?
Energy drinks have become the latest sensation in the market today. Attractive and colorful cans plus a sugary taste makes the drink a darling, especially to kids. However, due to a thriving market they command, most manufacturers withhold cautionary warnings on the products.
When it comes to toddlers, most parents think it okay to drink Gatorade, especially during diarrhea. But is it advisable? Read below to find out more.
Gatorade will not hydrate your baby!
Gatorade replenishes lost salts and minerals after a strenuous activity – so they say-. Note! This function only applies to athletes and adults who engage in physically demanding jobs.
The electrolyte content in Gatorade is what does the magic of dehydrating the body. As kids experience bouts of diarrhea in their growing stages, dehydration is apparent. However, Gatorade should not be your solution to the diarrhea problem. Scientifically, the drink has no medicinal capable of treating any disease. Gatorade will only make your baby thirsty due to the high concentration of salts and sugars.
When your baby is experiencing bouts of diarrhea, consult a pediatrician for proper diagnosis and treatment.
The ingredients will do more harm than good.
Just like most energy drinks, Gatorade contains some chemical compositions which are harmful to toddlers. The drink contains sucrose syrup, an artificial substance with direct links to obesity in adults.
Ironically, in the food and beverage industry, the term “natural” has a different meaning. Without proper regulations, manufacturers label anything natural. For instance, Gatorade’s version of grape extracts claim not to contain fruit juice. Surprisingly, the informational print reads “natural flavors.” This labeling provokes a question; is Gatorade natural?
The drinks also contain high levels of salt, which can be harmful to your baby. With the above information, don’t expose your toddler to toxic industrial chemicals.
You are likely to expose your baby to high levels of caffeine.
Apart from excessive industrial sugars and salts, energy drinks also contain high levels of caffeine. Caffeine has adverse effects on young babies sleep deprivation topping the list.
The leading cause for concern is the amounts of caffeine in one drink. Because the manufacturers produce in bulk, it’s hard to keep track of caffeine percentage. Giving your baby Gatorade is direct exposure to unknown levels of caffeine, which are probably high.
The stimulant also increases your child’s risk of heart attack and high blood pressure. Since babies have small and relatively inactive bodies, absorption and utilization of caffeine is minimal. Underutilization of caffeine increases the time spent in the bloodstream, which can be dangerous.
Addiction is a step away!
The least you want is exposing your young baby to addiction unknowingly. With high levels of caffeine, your baby is likely to suffer from addiction at a tender age.
There are numerous cases of babies crying and becoming restless, but after a shot of Gatorade, calmness resumes. Unless you stop, your baby could be a Gatorade junkie. If you notice your baby has unusual cravings for the drink, consult a pediatrician or nutritionist.
High levels of sugars may affect the baby’s teeth.
Gatorade contains high amounts of industrial sugar. An average can is said to include 54-62 grams of added sugar. These amounts are higher than what your baby needs.
High amounts of sugars present in the drink affect your kids dental health. As a parent, discourage the consumption of the drink and, if necessary, introduce healthier alternatives.
Nutritional value is close to nil.
There are concerns some parents use the drinks as appetizers or energizers. However, it is crucial to note Gatorade has zero nutritional value to your baby.
The high amounts of industrial sugars increase the chances of your baby becoming obese. If experiencing challenges formulating a healthy diet for your baby, consult a nutritionist for healthier options.
Be wary of unprofessional medics.
You may have done your best to protect your baby from these dangerous drinks. However, after visiting your local health facility, some nurses or doctor may advocate for Gatorade usage.
Worst case scenario, some doctors even give kids the drink after undergoing severe surgeries. Though the action might be a sign of good gesture, stand your ground against these harmful drinks.
What are the healthy alternatives?
Beverage companies spend billions annually, trying to market their products. Some of the campaigns will go to the extent of sugar-coating facts to make a sale. Though avoiding these products can be tricky, there’s always a healthier alternative for your baby.
Start by encouraging your kids to drink plenty of clean water or a glass of milk and fruit juice. These fluids are not only healthy but also contain high nutritional values. You can also opt for whole-grain cereals or baby carrots if you’re looking for that extra boost of energy.
Play your role as a parent
As a guardian, you have a primary role in taking care of your child. Taking care of your baby will warrant you to lead by example. Drinking Gatorade in the presence of your baby might trigger the baby’s interest.
So, if you are going to protect your child from harmful drinks, lead by example. You can instead opt for milk or fruit extracts, and by doing so, you’ll encourage your baby to follow suit.
Parenting can be tricky sometimes, as you are not always around. While unavailable, ensure the babysitter will not introduce the baby to energy drinks by outlining your regulations.
Bottom line
Energy drinks contain a lot of dangerous chemicals that have zero nutritional value to the body. However, the stimulants in most of these drinks are friendly and beneficial to athletic people.
Though beneficial to some people, young babies should never consume energy drinks. Introduction to these kinds of drinks exposes the baby to a variety of lifestyle diseases including obesity. If your baby is having some nutritional problems, consult a pediatrician or nutritionist, but never should you think of Gatorade. Consider the tips above before introducing your child to any kind of energy drink.