A New Policy on Fruit Juices

Fruit juices are often offered as a source of vitamins, water, and sometimes calcium for infants and children. They are high in carbohydrates, varying between 11 and 16 grams-percent. By comparison, human milk and infant formulas have 7 grams-percent of carbohydrates plus beneficial nutrients, including magnesium and protein.

Because of concerns about the association of fruit juices with dental caries and obesity in infants, children, and adolescents, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has recently updated its policy on the consumption of fruit juices. The recommendations include the following:

• Avoid giving fruit juice to infants before 1 year of age. It offers no nutritional benefit. If fruit juice is consumed, it should be offered onl…