Nutrition Q & A
Is Fruit Juice Good For My Baby?
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and the American Academy of Pediatrics agree that fruit juice offers no nutritional benefits to children younger than 6 months. After 6 months, pasteurized 100% fruit juice (not fruit drink) is an option, as long as your baby doesn't drink too much of it. Four to six ounces of juice a day are more than enough. Offer juice in a small cup at mealtime—not from a bottle, covered cup or juice box, which can promote sipping juice throughout the day. Juice shouldn't be given in a bedtime bottle.
Keep in mind that for children older than 6 months, fruit juice offers no nutritional benefits over whole fruit. Fruits also provide fiber and other nutrients.
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