POLICY STATEMENT |
Soft Drinks in Schools
This statement is intended to inform pediatricians and other health care professionals, parents, superintendents, and school board members about nutritional concerns regarding soft drink consumption in schools. Potential health problems associated with high intake of sweetened drinks are 1) overweight or obesity attributable to additional calories in the diet; 2) displacement of milk consumption, resulting in calcium deficiency with an attendant risk of osteoporosis and fractures; and 3) dental caries and potential enamel erosion. Contracts with school districts for exclusive soft drink rights encourage consumption directly and indirectly. School officials and parents need to become well informed about the health implications of vended drinks in school before making a decision about student access to them. A clearly defined, district-wide policy that restricts the sale of soft drinks will safeguard against health problems as a result of overconsumption.
Statement of reaffirmation:
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AAP Publications Retired and Reaffirmed
Pediatrics 123: 1421-1422.[Full Text]
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eLetters:
Read all eLetters
- Low-fat milk inappropriate
- Thomas D. Anderson
- Pediatrics Online, 2 Feb 2004 [Full text]
- Low-fat milk inappropriate (updated URL)
- Thomas D. Anderson
- Pediatrics Online, 18 Apr 2004 [Full text]




















