Fluid intake of Latin American children and adolescents: results of four 2016 LIQ.IN(7) National Cross-Sectional Surveys

PURPOSE: The primary aim of this survey was to report total fluid intake (TFI) and different fluid types for children (4–9 years) and adolescents (10–17 years) in Mexico, Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay. The second aim was to compare TFI with the adequate intake (AI) of water from fluids as recommended by the USA Institute of Medicine. METHODS: Data were collected using a validated liquid intake 7-day record (Liq.In(7)). Participants’ characteristics, including age, sex and anthropometric measurements were recorded. RESULTS: A total of 733 children and 933 adolescents were recruited. Over 75% of children in Uruguay met the IOM’s recommended intake. Fewer children in Argentina (64–72%) and Brazil (41–50%) obtained AI and the lowest values were recorded in Mexico (33–44%), where 16% of boys and 14% girls drank 50% or less of the AI. More adolescents in Argentina (42%) met the AIs than other countries; the lowest was in Mexico (28%). Children and adolescents in Mexico and Argentina drank more sugar sweetened beverages than water. CONCLUSIONS: Large numbers of children and adolescents did not meet AI recommendations for TFI, raising concerns about their hydration status and potential effects on mental and physical well-being. Given the negative effects on children’s health, the levels of SSB consumption are worrying. ELECTRONIC SUPPLEMENTARY MATERIAL: The online version of this article (10.1007/s00394-018-1728-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.