Generally, fruit juices don’t have a whole lot of nutritional value needed for a healthy children’s diet. As per tradition, parents start giving fruit juice to kids of 6 months to 1 year. There is a variety of fruit juices available in the market, especially the ones that are filtered out and clear, they do not retain that much of nutrition. In fact, fruit juice is not recommended for infants under 12 months of age. Sweetened drinks sometimes do result in dental problems. Some parents go for tea and herbal tea without knowing its effects on the children’s health.
Nowadays, obesity has become one of the biggest health issues in the children. The latest study on it shows that about 25% of the pediatric population in the United States is actually suffering from the overweight issue. Doctors are also seeking a solution to prevent the situation from getting it worse in future. One of the things that need to be emphasized is that we should motivate kids to refrain themselves from the soft drinks which are addictive.
Also Read: Can Antibiotics Treat Cold?
But, by offering fruit juices to the child, what we’re actually getting them accustomed to drinking something that is sweet in taste but not so healthy. This is the reason why the recommendation for fruit juices has been changed now, and we should ensure not to give any fruit juices to them at all. Parents should be aware of the effects of fruit juice. For the baby above one year, 1 or 2 ounces of fruit per day is sufficient and they wouldn’t get addicted. Since fruit juice concentrate effects on the body of children, their overall development remains incomplete.
Restricting the fruit juice will be the best. You should understand, your infant or toddler does not need any fruit juices as all. However, 100% pure fruit juices contain some useful vitamins but they often end up adding extra calories and sugar that your kid doesn’t need. Moreover, fruit juice doesn’t contain the valuable fiber which is found in fruit. One of the best things you can do for your child’s nutrition is that you offer him water to drink more. Even diluted juices given on a regular basis can get your child addicted to sweet beverages.
Some important facts regarding the packaged fruit juices are mentioned here.
Also Read: Simple tips to choose your bedtime snack carefully!
- Fruit juice offers no nutritional benefit to children under age 1 and it should not be included in their diet
- Parents perceive the fruit juice healthy, but it never acts as a substitute for fresh fruit needed for the children’s health
- Fruit juice is just a form of added sugar and calories, so you understand the effects of fruit juice on the children’s health
- Small amounts in moderation are fine for kids above 1 year, but they are not necessary for the healthy children’s diet
- Fruit juice fills baby up so quickly that she is weaned away from breastfeeding
- If you want to give fruit juice to your child then dilute it with water before offering
- If you are offering juice to your baby then limit it amount to maximum 3-4 ounces for a day so that she has no appetite for other foods. As fruit juice concentrate effects on the body, you should know how much amount will be ideal
