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For: Real America News Updated 17 Jan 2022, 23: 50 PM EST
Children under two years of age should not consume foods or drinks with added sugars. Fruits naturally contain sugar (fructose), they are a healthy option and pediatricians recommend that children consume them, although this does not apply to fruit juice.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) states that fruit juice should not be included in the diet of children under one year of age. According to the AAP, fruit juice offers no nutritional benefit to young children.
“Parents may perceive fruit juice as something healthy, but is not a good substitute for fresh fruit and just contains more sugar and calories“, said the gastroenterologist pediatrician Melvin B. Heyman, who directs the UCSF Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Program.
Pediatricians point out that breast milk or infant formula is sufficient for babies, and low-fat or fat-free milk and water are enough for older children.
Consumption of fruit juice can even have negative effects on children’s health. It is a drink that lacks dietary fiber and can contribute to excessive weight gain in minors.
“Excessive fruit juice can cause excessive weight gain and tooth decay”, said the professor of pediatrics, Steven A. Abrams, co-author, with Heyman, of the AAP statement “Fruit Juice in Infants, Children, and Adolescents: Current Recommendations.”
Children over one year old can consume fruit juice, although in moderation .
Juice intake should be limited to a maximum of 4 ounces per day for young children ages 1-3. For children ages 4 to 6, fruit juice should be limited to 4 to 6 ounces per day; and for children aged 7 to 18 years, intake should be limited to 8 ounces or 1 cup.
Young children should not be given juice from bottles or easily transportable “sippy cups” that allow them to easily consume juice throughout the day.
Pediatricians suggest that children should be encouraged to eat whole fruits and educated about their benefits.
Unpasteurized juice should not be consumed by children.
These drinks increase the risk of infection by infectious bacteria.
Pediatricians rule out that the juice fruit is suitable for treating dehydration or diarrhea. They also warn that children taking specific forms of medication should not be given grapefruit juice
, since it can interfere with the efficacy of drugs.
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