By Dr. Mary Vaughn Desoto, General Booth Pediatrics
The American Academy of Pediatrics recently updated their recommendations for fruit juice consumption for children. The new policy advises that fruit juice should not be given to children under the age of 1, as it offers no nutritional benefit for infants.
For older children, fruit juice intake should be limited as follows:
Toddlers age 1-3 years, 4 ounces daily Children age 4-6 years, 4 to 6 ounces daily Children ages 7-18 years, 8 ounces (1 cup) per day
Human milk or infant formula provides all of the nutrition a baby needs, and water or lowfat/nonfat milk are healthy beverage options for older kids.Due to the high sugar content, too much juice in a child’s diet can lead to problems such as poor nutrition, obesity, and tooth decay. Kids should never be allowed to carry a bottle, covered cup or box of juice throughout the day.
While fruit juice should be limited, children should be encouraged to eat whole fruits (mashed or pureed for infants) to meet daily fruit intake recommendations. Whole fruits contain fiber and other nutrients that are not found in juice alone.
Here are some fruits that are in season during the summer to keep on hand for healthy snacking:
- Apricots
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Plums
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Cherries
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Blackberries
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Nectarines
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Strawberries
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Peaches
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Melon
About CHKD Medical Group
Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters has been the region’s most trusted name in pediatric care for more than 50 years. As members of CHKD Health System, our pediatricians work closely with CHKD’s full range of pediatric specialists and surgeons. They also share a commitment to quality, excellence and child-centered care. With 18 practices in 29 locations throughout the region, a CHKD pediatrician is never far.