Is soda OK for kids?
Written from AAP, federal and National Academies guidance and checked against each source. Medical review by a pediatric registered dietitian is in progress. Updated November 2026.
Quick answer
No. One 12 oz can has about 10 teaspoons of sugar, which is more than the American Heart Association's whole-day limit for kids (less than 6 teaspoons).4
Pick your child's age for a personal answer
By age
| Age | Verdict | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Under 12 months | Skip | No. |
| 1 to 4 years | Skip | No. |
| 5 to 10 years | Skip | Skip. No amount of added sugar is recommended through age 10.2 |
| 11 to 18 years | Skip | Skip as an everyday drink. Once in a while at most. |
How much sugar?
Dashed line: the American Heart Association limit of 25 g of added sugar for the whole day, ages 2 to 18. Typical amounts, rounded. Brands vary.
Good to know
- A 20 oz bottle has about 65 g of sugar, around 16 teaspoons.
- Many sodas, especially colas, also contain caffeine.
- Sugar plus acid makes soda hard on teeth, and sipping it slowly makes that worse.
Try instead
Plain sparkling water with a squeeze of orange or lime.
Have the bottle in your hand? Check it with the label checker.
Common questions
How much sugar is in a can of soda?
About 39 to 41 g in a 12 oz can, roughly 10 teaspoons. The American Heart Association's limit for kids ages 2 to 18 is less than 25 g for the whole day.