Fruit juice: Is it good or bad for kids?

I've heard that fruit juice is bad for kids because it contributes to obesity. But my kids really like fruit juice, and it's a good source of vitamins. So what should I do?

- No name / No state given

Answer

Don't be too concerned. Recent studies have confirmed that drinking moderate amounts of 100 percent fruit juice does not have an effect on children's weight. However, fruit juice is high in calories, and — just like any other high-calorie food or drink — too much fruit juice can contribute to weight gain.

If you do give your children fruit juice, choose 100 percent fruit juice instead of sweetened juice or fruit-juice cocktail drinks. While 100 percent juice and sweetened fruit drinks may have about the same number of calories, your children will get more vitamins and nutrients from 100 percent juice.

To ensure your children aren't drinking too much juice, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the following limits:

• Infants less than 6 months old should not be given fruit juice. However, pediatricians may recommend giving 2 to 4 ounces of juice to infants who are constipated.
• Infants 6 months to 12 months old may have up to 4 ounces a day. Juice should not be given in a bottle, however, to avoid tooth decay.
• Children 1 year to 6 years old may have up to 6 ounces a day.
• Children older than 6 years may have up to 12 ounces a day.

You're right that fruit juice can be a good source of vitamin C, calcium and other nutrients. Check the label. Some children don't like eating fruit, so serving juice is one way to get them the two to three servings of fruit they need everyday. Four ounces of juice equals one serving of fruit, but keep in mind that juice lacks the fiber of whole fruit. Although a little fruit juice each day is fine for most children, whole fruit is preferred.

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