Babies should not have juice before 12 months of age. For the first year, breast milk or formula provides all the necessary nutrition and fluids. Introducing juice before 1 year is not recommended because it offers no nutritional benefit, can contribute to tooth decay, weight gain, and may cause diarrhea. After 12 months, juice can be introduced but should be limited to no more than 4 ounces per day and diluted with water to reduce sugar intake. Whole fruits are a healthier option than juice because they contain fiber and less sugar. In summary:
- No juice before 12 months.
- After 12 months, offer limited amounts (up to 4 ounces daily) of 100% fruit juice, diluted with water.
- Prefer whole fruits over juice for better nutrition and fiber.
These recommendations align with guidance from pediatric and health organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics.
