Generally, experts recommend no juice at all for children under the age of 2. For toddlers older than 2, juice should be limited and served in moderation.
Why Limit Juice for Toddlers?
- Empty Calories: Juice, even green juice, often provides calories without the necessary fiber found in whole fruits and vegetables. These empty calories can contribute to weight gain and potentially impact healthy eating habits.
- Tooth Decay: The sugars in juice can contribute to tooth decay, especially if consumed frequently or allowed to linger in the mouth.
- Displacement of Nutritious Foods: Drinking too much juice can fill a toddler up, causing them to eat less of the solid foods they need for proper growth and development. Milk and water are the best beverages for toddlers.
- Potential for Digestive Upset: Some children can experience digestive issues, such as diarrhea or gas, from consuming large quantities of juice.
Recommendations for Toddlers Over 2
If you choose to give your toddler green juice after they turn 2, keep the following in mind:
- Limit Quantities: Experts often suggest limiting juice intake to no more than 4 ounces per day for children ages 2-3.
- Dilute the Juice: Consider diluting the green juice with water to reduce the sugar concentration.
- Serve with Meals: Offering juice with a meal can help to slow down sugar absorption.
- Choose 100% Juice: If you offer juice, opt for 100% juice, and read the label to ensure there are no added sugars or artificial sweeteners.
- Focus on Whole Fruits and Vegetables: Prioritize offering whole fruits and vegetables as the primary source of nutrients and fiber.
Instead of relying on green juice to boost your toddler's vegetable intake, focus on making fruits and vegetables appealing through presentation, variety, and cooking methods. Offer small portions and continue introducing new options, even if they initially reject them.
