A new study finds that children who drink 100 percent orange juice (OJ) as part of a healthy diet have better overall diet quality and consume more nutrients than those who do not. The research also adds to a growing body of evidence showing consumption of 100 percent OJ has no impact on weight in children.
Authors of the study published in Pediatric Research and Child Health conducted a nationally representative cross-sectional analysis of the diets and activity levels of 21,988 children ages 2 to 18. The children were participating in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2003-2016. Among those who consumed 100 percent OJ, the daily amount averaged 1.4 ounces.
Researchers found that children who consumed orange juice had significantly higher energy and food intakes, were more likely to engage in vigorous physical activity and, consistent with previous research, had no differences in weight status compared to children who did not drink OJ. As OJ consumption increased, so did intake of vitamin C, potassium, fiber, folate, thiamin, magnesium and calcium at all ages, as well as vitamin D in older children. Vitamin C and potassium are under-consumed nutrients and potassium is a nutrient of public health concern among children, according to the authors.
Additionally, increased OJ consumption led to …..
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