Are sports drinks 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
Usually not. The American Academy of Pediatrics says water is the best drink for kids and teens, and sports drinks are unnecessary for most kids doing normal activity.5
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. Water and plain milk.1 |
| 5 to 10 years | Occasionally | Not needed for normal play or practice. Water is best.5 |
| 11 to 18 years | Occasionally | Water for most practices. For long, hard exercise in the heat, ask your doctor or athletic trainer.5 |
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 sports drink has about 34 g of sugar, more than the 25 g daily limit.
- A normal diet replaces the salts lost in sweat.5
- Plain milk is a good recovery drink, according to the AAP report.5
Try instead
Water breaks every 15 to 20 minutes, orange slices at halftime.
Have the bottle in your hand? Check it with the label checker.
Common questions
Do kids need electrolytes?
Most kids get the electrolytes they need from food. For heavy sweating during long, intense exercise in the heat, ask your pediatrician.