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Fruit juice isn't all bad, but it is high in sugars and shouldn't take the place of other liquids.

When it comes to juice, too much of a good thing can be bad for kids.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), juice can be a good source of vitamin C and a healthful part of a child's diet. But drinking too much fruit juice packs in more sugar and calories than are needed and can lead to excessive weight gain and tooth decay. 

When consumed in large amounts, juice can also cause diarrhea. 

In light of these concerns, the AAP offers these recommendations:

• Infants younger than 1 year should not drink fruit juice.
• Toddlers 1 to 3 years old should have no more than 4 ounces of juice per day. They should not get juice from bottles or cups that allow them to drink juice throughout the day and should not be given juice at bedtime.
• Children 4 to 6 years old should have no more than 4 to 6 ounces of juice per day.
• Children 7 to 18 years old should have no more than 8 ounces of juice per day.

Reviewed 3/19/2024