DRINK CONSUMPTION BY CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE OF SCHOOL AGE

Background
Early childhood is especially conducive to shaping nutritional patterns, the effects of which may be felt throughout life. Fluid intake is an important element of a balanced diet. Currently, the nutrition of children and adolescents is characterized by many mistakes. The aim of the study was to assess the amount of fluids consumed by school-age children and adolescents and to analyze the types of drinks chosen.

Material and methods
The research material consisted of data obtained from 2,986 children and adolescents 10 to 18 years of age attending selected schools in Poland that joined the e-PE program. It is an innovative tool that makes it easier for physical education teachers to work on-site and remotely. The diagnostic survey method, a questionnaire, was chosen to carry out the research.

Results
The recommended amount of drinks consumed per day was declared by 62.4% of the surveyed students. Unfortunately, 4% of young people do not drink the minimum amount of fluids in any form, and the values they provide are extremely low, which may pose a serious threat to life. Moreover, the level of consumption of energy drinks is worrying. Unfortunately, as many as 18.1% of young people prefer such drinks.

Conclusions
Proper fluid intake during the day applies to 2/3 of the respondents. The rest do not drink the recommended amount of drinks. The choice of the type of fluids is a positive signal. The respondents most often chose still water.