Review of 100% Fruit Juice and Chronic Health Conditions: Implications for Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Policy

Adv Nutr. 2018 Mar 1;9(2):78-85. doi: 10.1093/advances/nmx006.

Abstract

Whether or not drinking 100% fruit juice causes poor health is controversial. Although 100% fruit juice may contain as much sugar as regular soda, it provides needed nutrients to Americans' diets. We systematically reviewed the current evidence of the association of 100% fruit juice consumption and chronic health conditions in children and adults. We focused on data from systematic reviews and meta-analyses about cardiometabolic health outcomes, liver disease, and caries. Aside from increased risk of tooth decay in children and small amounts of weight gain in young children and adults, there is no conclusive evidence that consumption of 100% fruit juice has adverse health effects. Guidelines from groups like the American Academy of Pediatrics and Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommending that 100% fruit juice may be consumed in moderation are consistent with the available evidence and should be used to inform food policies.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Cardiovascular Diseases / etiology
  • Chronic Disease*
  • Dental Caries / etiology
  • Diet*
  • Dietary Sugars / adverse effects*
  • Energy Intake
  • Feeding Behavior*
  • Fruit and Vegetable Juices / adverse effects*
  • Fruit and Vegetable Juices / analysis
  • Humans
  • Liver Diseases / etiology
  • Metabolic Diseases / etiology
  • Nutrition Policy*
  • Nutritive Value
  • Sweetening Agents / adverse effects*

Substances

  • Dietary Sugars
  • Sweetening Agents