Generally, experts recommend that babies should not have added sugar.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
- No Added Sugar for Infants: Health professionals strongly advise against giving infants (0-12 months old) any added sugars.
- Limited Added Sugar for Young Children: For children between 12 and 24 months old, added sugar intake should be very limited, if any.
What are Added Sugars?
Added sugars are sugars and syrups that are added to foods or beverages during processing, preparation, or at the table. This includes:
- Natural Sugars: Such as honey, maple syrup, and agave. While these might seem healthier, they are still considered added sugars for infants.
- Processed Sugars: High-fructose corn syrup, sucrose (table sugar), and dextrose.
Why Avoid Added Sugars for Babies?
- Nutritional Value: Added sugars provide empty calories, meaning they offer little to no nutritional benefit. Babies need nutrient-rich foods for healthy growth and development.
- Developing Taste Preferences: Introducing babies to added sugars early can lead to a preference for sweet foods later in life, potentially increasing the risk of obesity and other health problems.
- Dental Health: Sugar contributes to tooth decay.
- Risk of Unhealthy Weight Gain: Excessive sugar intake can contribute to unhealthy weight gain in infants and children.
Important Considerations:
- Naturally Occurring Sugars: This advice pertains to added sugars, not the natural sugars found in fruits, vegetables, and breast milk or formula. These foods are important for a baby's healthy development.
- Read Labels Carefully: Check food labels to identify added sugars in processed foods, even those marketed for babies and toddlers.
In conclusion, minimize or eliminate added sugar from a baby's diet to promote healthy development, prevent unhealthy eating habits, and protect their dental health.
