A recent study revealed that excessive consumption of fruit juice by young children is associated with obesity and short stature. The researchers studied the eating habits and growth patterns of 168 children ages two to five and determined that obesity and shorter stature were associated with children drinking more than 12 ounces of fruit juice per day. This finding, published in the January 1997 issue of Pediatrics, is consistent with previous studies, which also made this connection. Additionally, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Pedodontics have twice issued a joint statement discouraging the use of fruit juices from a bottle.
Conflicting Reports
These findings, however, appear inconsistent with public beliefs regarding nutrition and the overall increase in juice consumption in the U.S. The most recent nutrition guidelines propose that children, as well adults, consume two or three servings of fruit each day. One serving of fruit is equal to one medium-sized piece of fruit (such as an orange, banana or apple), one-half cup of chopped fruit or a three-quarter cup of fruit juice. Fruit juice manufacturers have responded to public health nutrition initiatives with successful marketing campaigns that encourage increased fruit consumption. Because of the great variety, accessibility and low cost of juice compared to soda and milk, it has become a convenient drink and snack food for all ages. These conflicting messages can be confusing to consumers, especially parents choosing foods for their infants and children.
Empty Calories
Even in light of their recent study linking juice with obesity and short stature, the researchers say that juice is healthier for children than soda or other sugary drinks. Fruit juices, however, contain "empty calories" due to their high content of simple sugars, such as fructose and glucose. Children who drink excessive amounts of juice consume more simple sugars and, therefore, more calories that can result in obesity. The association between juice and short stature may be due to the fact that the children who drink higher amounts of juice are less likely to eat nutritious foods and complex carbohydrates. But researchers do not recommend that children stop drinking fruit juices completely. Remember, only children who consumed more than 12 ounces of juice tended to be obese and shorter. Until other studies are conducted, however, the experts advise that parents limit their children's juice intake to less than 12 ounces per day. The bottom line is that fruit juice still is a healthy drink and snack for children. But like almost everything, it should be consumed in moderation.
Consumer Warning
As consumers, parents also need to be wary of fruit drinks that are implicitly labeled as juice. The federal food labeling laws require that all beverages claiming to contain juice clearly state the total percentage on the information panel. For example, a drink that is 10 percent juice contains very little juice and is far less nutritious than 100 percent juice. It is important to check the percentage of juice in drinks because many fruit drink names are similar to those of real fruit or fruit juices.
The Benefits of Fresh Fruit
Although juice intake may be reduced, children still should eat fresh fruit daily and stay hydrated, especially during the summer months. Summer is a great season to increase the amount of fresh fruit children eat. Encourage your children to enjoy the variety of fruits of the season, such as watermelon, cantaloupe, blueberries and raspberries. Fruit salads are refreshing and delicious for breakfast, snacks and desserts. Frozen grapes are a fun, cool treat for kids. It's up to you to take advantage of the delicious summer fruits – and to hook you and your kids on heart-healthy eating.
Decode the following words to discover cool, refreshing and delicious summer fruits. Remember to eat two to three servings of fruit every day!
1=a, 2=b, 3=c, 4=d, 5=e, 6=g, 7=h, 8=I, 9=l, 10=m, 11=n, 12=o, 13=p, 14=r, 15=s, 16=t, 17=u, 18=w, 19=y
1) _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____
3 1 11 16 1 9 12 17 13 5
2) _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____
18 1 16 5 14 10 5 9 12 11
3) _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____
2 9 17 5 2 5 14 14 19
4) _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____
15 16 14 1 18 2 5 14 14 19
Answer Key: cantaloupe, watermelon, blueberry, strawberry
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