Many experts agree that 100 percent fruit juice, consumed in moderation, can play a valuable role in the healthy pediatric diet.With 100 percent fruit juice only, the study found no connection to obesity among children at or near normal body weight. In fact, 100 percent juice, when consumed in moderation, can be an excellent part of most children's diets. They said that these juices do not contain added sugars and should not be lumped into the same category as sweetened beverages.
There are several benefits offered by 100 percent fruit juices for children: They contribute ready energy from carbohydrates and provide micronutrients and phytonutrients. Vitamin C in fruit juice assists in the absorption of iron, which is critical for health. Some juices are also abundant sources of natural plant compounds that act not only as potent antioxidants but that are being studied for their potential to contribute a wide range of health benefits.
Finally, a serving of 100 percent juice can help children achieve the recommended daily servings of fruits and vegetables.
Maintaining overall health and a healthy weight is largely a function of regular physical activity and the proper consumption of all foods.
Grape juice also has considerable nutritional benefits. Many clinical studies have shown cardiovascular benefits from drinking this grape juice, such as more flexible arteries, slower oxidation of low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), and inhibition of platelet clot formation.The juice from grapes also has higher levels of one important class of phytonutrients per serving than any beverage they tested. It provides a significant source of dietary antioxidants--delivering more than two times the natural antioxidant power of orange juice--and contributes to one's need for colorful fruit servings. One hundred percent white grape juice, also supplies dietary antioxidants; in fact, it has more natural antioxidant power than other clear juices, such as apple juice.
For children who were already significantly overweight, there was only a slight connection between 100 percent juice consumption and the risk of remaining obese. The study did show a significant relationship between the consumption of fruit drinks and sodas and obesity among those who were already overweight.
The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that children between ages six months and six years of age drink no more than four to six ounces of 100 percent juice each day. The drinks should be accompanied by whole fruits and vegetables as well.
Although this amount may be somewhat low for older children, it emphasizes the idea that moderation is important. An excellent guideline is that 100 percent fruit juice should be considered for satisfying only one of the recommended daily servings of fruit for young children--about a half a cup--and no more than two daily servings of fruit for those over six years of age.
Fruit juice for children
