Beverage consumption among preschool-aged children

Background: Beverages, including soda and sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB), 100% juice, and whole milk are calorie dense and can contribute to obesity in children. Because of increasing obesity rates among preschool-aged children, it is important to examine beverage consumption in this age group. Objective: This study explored beverage consumption (SSB, 100% juice, and milk) in a sample of preschool-aged children. We also examined differences according to parental income level and participation in the WIC program. Methods: A random sample of 721 Texas parents with at least one child between the ages of 1 and 5 years completed a 30-minute telephone interview assessing child consumption. The sample included WIC households, low-income non-WIC households, and higher-income households. Fifty percent of the sample was Hispanic. Results: Most children in the sample drink milk daily (average daily intake = 2.8 cups). 55% of children drink whole milk. ANOVAs indicate no differences among children of low- and high-income families. 84% of children drink juice drink (mean amount=8.5 ounces). Chi-square analyses show that low-income children enrolled in WIC were most likely to drink juice daily. 77% children consume SSB at least weekly with no income differences. Implications: Young children are consuming beverages with high caloric intake on a daily basis and in greater than recommended amounts, contributing excess calories to their diets. Childhood obesity prevention interventions can address this by emphasizing the importance of switching to low-fat milk, drinking 100% juice in moderate amounts, and the high caloric content and lack of nutrients in SSBs.