Parents in Fort Lee, NJ, like all parents across the US, want to find the healthiest foods for their kids, which includes looking for the best juices. It’s tough to do. There’s a lot to look at when searching the selection. It has to be something the kids will drink, be low in sugar and additives and contain the most nutrients possible. Of course, organic juice is a top priority. Studies show that some mistakes of the 1950s, where cities indiscriminately sprayed DDT for mosquito control, could affect generations of people, so limiting pesticides, herbicides and artificial fertilizer is important.
Watch for the sugar content.
Even though juice may be natural, with no added sugar, it still has sugar, but with none of the fiber that slows the delivery of the sugar into the bloodstream. Adding extra sugar to the mix can create a mixture that will have kids climbing the curtains for hours. Check the label for sugar content, especially added sugar. Also check for fiber content of the juice. Juicing at home provides more fiber for kids, and in many cases, more nutrients.
Too much fruit juice isn’t healthy.
Yes, your child will get extra nutrients from fruit juice and it’s far better than a sugary drink, but the FDA recommends you limit it. For children aged four to six, no more than six ounces should be consumed daily and for children from 7 to 18, that amount increases to an 8 ounce cup. Choose options that include both fruits and vegetables to cut down the sugar content and opt for those that are 100% fruit or vegetable juice, which is labeled “fruit juice” and “vegetable juice.” Only juices containing 100% juice can use that label.
Consider vegetable juices for kids.
Most parents think immediately of orange juice and other fruit juices when selecting drinks for children, but vegetable juices can also be delicious, just as mixtures of fruit and vegetable juices. While tomatoes are really a fruit, most people think of them as a vegetable. Their juice is a low sugar option that is high in antioxidants, has calcium to boost bone building, strengthens the immune system and can even help prevent lead toxicity, which has become far less of a problem in recent years. It has only 6 grams of natural sugar, and also has 2 grams of protein and 1 gram of fiber. It also contains folate, potassium, vitamins A, C, E and K.
- If you choose apple juice for your child, be aware there are two types from which to select. The first is clear and the second is cloudy. Clear apple juice doesn’t have as much antioxidant power as cloudy apple juice does.
- You can make an alternative to lemonade for kids that doesn’t contain added sugar. Juice one apple and one lemon then, mix and store in the refrigerator for ten minutes to chill before serving.
- You don’t need a juicer for this kid-friendly combo that’s rich in iron and antioxidants to keep your child healthier. Put a cup of watermelon that’s seeded and a cup of mixed berries in a blender and it’s ready. Store in the refrigerator for up to two days.
- If you’re purchasing juices for children, choose only shelf stable ones that are pasteurized and serve them only with a meal to limit tooth decay. If you give children juice at bedtime, it can cause digestive issues, too.
For more information, contact us today at VIP Fitness Center