By Jackie McKenzie

While 100% fruit juice can be a healthy beverage, the Canadian Pediatric Society recommends limiting juice to 125 to 175 ml (1/2 c to 3/4 c) per day for toddler and preschool aged children.  Enjoying fruit juice as a beverage helps to fulfill the recommendations from Canada’s Food Guide for Healthy Eating of 4-5 fruit and vegetable servings for those ages 2-5 years (one serving of juice is 125 ml).  However, limiting juice to one serving and encouraging the enjoyment of whole fruits and vegetables is preferred for the additional fibre benefits.  

Remember all juices are not created equal.  It is important to have 100 % fruit juice instead of fruit punch, fruit drink or fruit cocktail to avoid the added sugar and calories often associated with these beverages.  Read labels carefully as it can sometimes be difficult to see the small print!!