My kids want to want flavored milk? Doesn't it contain more sugar and calories than plain, white milk?

Flavored milk contains the same nine essential nutrients as unflavored milk and only 60 calories per 8-ounce serving from added sugar. Flavored milk's contribution to the total added sugar in children's diets is minimal — only 1-2 percent. The 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recognizes that small amounts of sugars added to nutrient-dense foods, such as low-fat milk products, enhances their taste appeal, and therefore, improves overall nutrient intake without contributing excessive calories. Also, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends children and teens consume low-fat or fat-free white or flavored milk, cheeses and yogurts with modest amounts of added sweeteners to optimize bone health. Children who drink flavored milk, drink more milk and have higher calcium intakes, but don't consume more total sugar or fat than children who don't drink flavored milk, research shows.

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