Abstract
Sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption contributes to obesity and chronic disease. SSB intake in children and adolescents remains well above recommendations and reducing intake is challenging. In addition to high sugar content, SSBs are the predominant source of caffeine among youth. However, whether caffeine in SSBs presents unique barriers to reducing consumption is unknown. Herein, we examine parental concerns about child caffeinated-SSB (CSSB) intake and describe parent-reported barriers to lowering their child’s consumption. In-depth qualitative interviews were conducted with 21 parents of children and adolescents 8–17 years of age. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were coded using Nvivo™, and key themes were identified. Most parents expressed concern about child CSSB consumption, primarily with regard to dietary (e.g., excess sugar), health (e.g., obesity, diabetes) and/or behavioral (e.g., hyperactivity) consequences of frequent intake. Several key barriers to CSSB restriction were reported, encompassing six emergent themes: widespread availability and accessibility; child non-compliance when asked not to drink CSSBs; peer and cultural influences; negative child response to CSSB restriction; family eating behaviors; and, child preferences for CSSBs versus other beverages. Consideration of these barriers, along with the development of novel approaches to address these challenges, will likely bolster success in interventions aimed at reducing CSSB intake among children and adolescents.
Highlights
Sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption is associated with increased risk of dental caries, as well as excessive weight gain and obesity among children [1,2]
Our findings demonstrate that most parents recognize frequent caffeinated sugar-sweetened beverages (CSSBs) consumption as detrimental to their child’s health
Adverse health effects resulting from excess SSB consumption are well established [39]
Summary
Sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption is associated with increased risk of dental caries, as well as excessive weight gain and obesity among children [1,2]. Differences in perceived social norms surrounding SSB intake across race/ethnic groups. In addition to having high sugar content, SSBs are the main source of caffeine among children [9]. Most studies evaluating effects of SSBs on children focus on sugar content. While a variety of factors, including palatability, accessibility, publicity, affordability, and social acceptability contribute to frequent and sustained SSB consumption [7,13], the combination of caffeine and sugar in CSSBs may further encourage continued intake [14]. It is critical to address the paucity of knowledge surrounding CSSB consumption in children
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
