Reevaluating Fruit Juice: What You Need to Know from Your Hartington Dentist

Don’t be fooled by the label “100 percent fruit juice.” While these drinks may seem like a healthy choice, they can often do more harm than good. Many fruit juices contain high amounts of sugar, which can lead to tooth decay. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recently updated their recommendations on fruit juice consumption for young children.

Here’s what you need to know about these new guidelines:

No Fruit Juice in the First 12 Months

The AAP previously advised against giving fruit juice to infants under 6 months old. This year, however, the AAP extended that recommendation, suggesting that infants should not consume any fruit juice until after their first birthday.

A Good Source of Vitamins – And Sugar

Fruit juice can provide essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and potassium. However, it’s also high in sugar. According to a study summarized by Medical News Today, fruit juice can contain up to 2 teaspoons of sugar per 100 milliliters. This high sugar content can be harmful, particularly for young children.

The Impact of Fruit Juice on Teeth

Sugar is a leading cause of tooth decay, especially in children. The AAP also advises against serving fruit juice in “sippy cups” to toddlers and young children. These cups can increase the exposure of decay-causing sugars to teeth, creating an ideal environment for cavities.

Updated Guidelines for Fruit Juice Consumption

Moderation is key according to the AAP’s updated guidelines. While children under 12 months should not have fruit juice, older children can have small amounts.

The AAP recommends:

• A maximum of 4 ounces per day for children aged 1 to 3
• 4 to 6 ounces per day for children aged 4 to 6
• 8 ounces per day for children aged 7 to 18

You can also dilute the juice with water to reduce the sugar content before giving it to your child.

Reducing Sugar for Everyone

It’s not just children who should limit sugary drinks. Adults are also at risk for tooth decay from excessive sugar intake. Try to limit your consumption of sugary beverages to maintain your oral health.

Regular Dental Visits Are Essential

Regular visits to Family 1st Dental – Hartington allow our team to ensure your child’s teeth are healthy. We provide comprehensive screenings to detect and treat decay early. If your child drinks more than the recommended amount of sugary fruit juices, consider scheduling an extra cleaning with us. Together, we can promote a lifetime of optimal oral health.

To schedule a visit with our Hartington dentist, please contact our team today. We’re here to help you and your family maintain healthy, beautiful smiles.