What type of juice is recommended for infants?

The recommended choice, which involves offering either infant or regular 100 percent fruit juice to infants who are able to drink from a cup, is grounded in guidance from pediatric health authorities. This recommendation emphasizes the importance of providing juice that is 100 percent fruit juice to ensure that infants receive the nutritional benefits without added sugars or unnecessary ingredients found in sweetened juices.

Furthermore, introducing juice in a manner that is appropriate for their developmental stage, specifically when they can drink from a cup, helps in promoting healthy drinking habits and reduces the risk of overconsumption associated with drinking from bottles. This approach also encourages infants to transition to solid foods and a broader variety of beverages as they grow.

The other options do not align with health and nutrition guidelines. Sweetened juice can contribute to excessive sugar intake, while mixing juice with water dilutes the nutritional value and may not provide sufficient vitamins. Additionally, while citrus juice is a good source of vitamin C, it is not recommended for infants under a certain age due to its acidity and potential to cause digestive issues. Thus, the focus on 100 percent fruit juice for older infants supports their health and nutritional needs effectively.