American Academy of Pediatrics makes a crucial fruit juice recommendation for kids, urging parents to avoid offering infants the beverages to infants under the age of one.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) stated that fruit juice should not be offered to kids under one unless recommended by a doctor, as they provide “no nutritional benefits” and may harm their health.
Previous guidelines encouraged that fruit juice not be given to infants under the age of 6 months.
Based on the evidence from years of research, the AAP has concluded that fruit juice “offers no nutritional benefits for infants younger than 1 year,” and so they shouldn’t drink it, “unless clinically indicated.”
“Parents may perceive fruit juice as healthy, but it is not a good substitute for fresh fruit and just packs in more sugar and calories,” says statement co-author Dr. Melvin B. Heyman, an AAP fellow. “Small amounts in moderation are fine for older kids, but are absolutely unnecessary for children under 1.”
The AAP recommends no more than 4 ounces of fruit juice daily for toddlers aged 1-3 years old. Children between 4 to 6 years should consume no more than 4 to 6 ounces per day.
For children and adolescents aged 7 to 18 years, fruit juice intake should be limited to no more than 8 ounces of fruit juice.
“We know that excessive fruit juice can lead to excessive weight gain and tooth decay,” says statement co-author Dr. Steven A. Abrams, also a fellow of the AAP. “Pediatricians have a lot of information to share with families on how to provide the proper balance of fresh fruit within their child’s diet.”
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REFERENCES:
1. “Avoid Fruit Juice up to the Age of 1 Year, Say the AAP.” Medical News Today. MediLexicon International, 01 Jan. 1970. Web. 22 May 2017.
2. “Fruit Juice in Infants, Children, and Adolescents: Current Recommendations.” Pediatrics. American Academy of Pediatrics, 22 May 2017. Web. 22 May 2017.
