Research Supports Use of 100% Fruit Juice in the Diets
of Infants and Children
In contrast to a recent study suggesting that consumption of 100% fruit juices contributes to obesity in children, other studies show no connection whatsoever.
A study published in the January 2005 issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association was based on more than 21 years of child consumption and growth data from the world-reknowned Bogalusa Heart Study. That study did not find any causal relationship between sweetened beverage consumption and body mass index/energy intake among children.
Other pertinent research, published by Dr. Jeanne Skinner of the University of Tennessee/Knoxville, was also recently published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association. That study’s finding came from a large database on children's beverage intake over several years. The latest analyses by Dr. Skinner found, "although juice intakes were not always moderate, growth parameters did not indicate overweight or short status." She concluded, "There were no statistically significant associations between juice [intake] and children's height, weight or body mass index…" and that "100 percent fruit juices are acceptable, affordable, and nutritious beverages that do not compromise children's growth."
Even the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), in its current statement on juice consumption notes that the vast majority of infants and children are currently consuming 100 percent fruit juice within the recommended limits. In that statement, AAP acknowledges the benefits of 100 percent fruit juice. Recent research studies have found that 100 percent fruit juice, in particular 100 percent apple juice, contains important phytonutrients that are beneficial to health.
When it comes to a child's diet, the apple juice industry has always recommended that parents and caregivers discuss their child's nutritional requirements with their pediatrician, family physician or other health professional, especially for children under the age of one.
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