Energy Drinks Bad For Kids

By WKBW News

May 31, 2011 Updated May 31, 2011 at 9:18 PM EDT

(WKBW/Cleveland Clinic) Energy drinks are often marketed to children, but a new study finds kids shouldn't have them.

The new report from the American Academy of Pediatrics says children should not consume energy drinks and rarely need sports drinks.

There is an effort underway now to inform parents the difference between energy drinks and sports drinks.

Energy drinks contain stimulants such as caffeine that could pose a health threat to children.

Sports drinks contain carbohydrates and minerals. They're intended to replace water and electrolytes lost through sweating during exercise.

Experts say neither are necessary and recommend that children or adolescents drink water or low-fat milk.