Whether we’re reminded of enjoying a glass of OJ before catching the school bus or sipping a box of apple juice at recess, many of us associate drinking juice with fond childhood memories. However, consumers today are often faced with mixed messages regarding juice and how it affects our health. Although the 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines recognize 100% juice as a nutrient equivalent of fruit, some parents are still hesitant about serving juice to their family.
Here’s the truth: Nearly 80% of Americans are not meeting the recommended servings of fruit and vegetables in their diet – and 100% juice is a simple and delicious way to do so! Let’s take a look at why juice can and should be a part of your everyday routine:
- Juice is economical – Are you on a restricted food budget? 100% fruit juice offers an affordable and nutrient-dense option that can help you and your family meet dietary goals without exceeding your cash limit.
- Children who drink juice have better overall diets – Worried about whether you’re encouraging a healthy diet in your household? No need! Research shows that children who drink juice have higher intakes of vitamin C, magnesium, and potassium. Plus, juice drinkers have lower intakes of total fat, saturated fat, sodium, and added sugar than non-consumers.
- Vitamins, minerals, and more – Think you know all of the juice benefits? In addition to vitamins and minerals, 100% juice contains plant compounds which have been linked to maintaining cognitive function, protecting heart health, and reducing urinary tract infections. Check out our Latest Scientific Research for more information.
- Juice is always in season – If you’re looking for a variety of delicious flavors, look no further. Regardless of what may or may not be in season, juice offers an ongoing assortment of taste– which can be enjoyed any time of year!
- 100% juice intake is linked to higher consumption of whole fruit – Studies show that children who drink 100% juice also eat more whole fruit, and tend to have a similar or greater total dietary fiber intake than non-juice drinkers. So it’s important to remember that 100% fruit juice complements – rather than competes – with whole fruit intake. It can even further encourage your family to enjoy more whole fruit!
Looking to shake things up a bit? Check out our recipe page for fun and exciting ways to incorporate 100% juice into your family’s diet. For more information on why all forms of fruit and vegetables matter, visit the Produce for Better Health Foundation’s website.
