The consumption of fruit juice, according to the USDA, is advantageous for healthy children. USDA's Dietary Guidelines for Americans and the Food Guide Pyramid recommend 2-4 fruit servings per day for children, depending on the level of calories consumed. What parents don't realize is that their children can drink some of their fruit servings each day. Parents should check with their healthcare provider about providing additional fluids to infants.
Parents also can rely on the name of the product as it is listed on the front of the container.
A national survey of pediatric health professionals confirms that apple juice is the first juice most often recommended for infants. Since apple juice is so well accepted and pleasing, according to the survey, it remains the fruit juice of choice for babies and toddlers. Apple juice also has a mild laxative effect that may help provide relief from constipation commonly experienced by little ones. Apple juice fortified with vitamin C may help children absorb more iron, an important nutrient for growth and development. In fact, most children drink much less than 12 ounces of fruit juice a day.