Soft drinks, after all, often have little nutritional value. But scientists have yet to link soft drink consumption to health problems in children. For example, only three studies so far have examined soft drinks and childhood obesity, each producing mixed results. The most recent study, an April 2001 study by Georgetown University researchers, reported no association between soft drink consumption and childhood obesity. Since the academy has yet to advise against soft drink consumption, decrying fruit juice seems somewhat bizarre.
Fruit juice tastes good and provides children with needed vitamins, minerals and fluids.
It can substitute for fruits that often aren't available to children or that many children shun. Though they often have no credible science to support their advice, they believe they should be allowed to dictate what our children eat and drink. Many products now served in school cafeterias also are being criticized as unhealthy. Milk, red meat, eggs, cake, cookies, ice cream, Jell-O, lemonade, fried foods, and more are under attack. Children's health and nutrition has never been better.