Credits: iStock/Esin Deniz
Studies highlight that, although natural juices have their benefits, they also have disadvantages that make them less healthy as expected – iStock/Getty Images
Daily consumption of one or more glasses of natural fruit juice is linked to weight gain, explains a study recently published in the journal JAMA Pediatrics. The solution, according to researchers from University of Torontoin Canada, may be limiting the intake of this drink – and it is recommended especially among younger people, taking into account the fight against Child obesity.
Although fruit juice, also known as natural juice, is produced directly from fruit, without adding sugar, its consumption cannot be considered exactly healthy. The researchers analyzed data from 42 previous studies, which contained information on almost 46,000 children, aged between 1 and 15. The objective was to investigate the relationship between the consumption of natural juice and weight gain in adults and children.
Natural and… healthy juices?
The study defines fruit juice as one without added sugar, and one glass is equivalent to approximately 240 ml. The results revealed clear patterns between children’s drinking and weight gain. Each additional glass of the juice was linked to an increase in body mass index (BMI), a measure of height and weight used to determine whether someone is overweight or obese.
Furthermore, evidence suggests that fruit juice intake is associated with weight gain in adults, but researchers say that more studies are needed in this area.
Pros and cons of natural juices
For the American Academy of Pediatrics, it is not recommended to give fruit juice to babies under 1 year of age, while limiting it to 120 ml per day for young children, as part of a meal. Children between 1 and 6 years old should not drink more than 180 ml per day.
The research serves as an important reminder for us to rethink our eating habits and the choices we offer our children. Even though the juice is natural and has no added sugar, its consumption should be moderate for a balanced and healthy diet.
