Water or Juice? Which Drinks Are Best for Children?

Healthy eating habits for children include not only eating nutritious meals, but also proper hydration. Many parents wonder whether water or juices are better for children. In this article, we will look at the pros and cons of different drinks and suggest which choices are most beneficial for the health of the youngest.

Why is proper hydration so important?

✔ Supports the proper functioning of the body and metabolism.
✔ Helps you concentrate and maintain energy throughout the day.
✔ Regulates body temperature and supports the digestive system.
✔ Prevents dehydration and supports immunity.

Water for Children – Why is It the Best Choice?

✔ Calorie and sugar free – water does not contain additional calories or artificial additives, so it does not negatively affect the child's weight.
✔ Naturally hydrates – best replenishes fluid deficiencies and helps maintain proper water-electrolyte balance.
✔ Supports dental health – does not contain acids or sugars that can lead to tooth decay.
✔ Easy to serve – available at any time and requires no preparation.

Juices for Kids – Are They Healthy?

✔ Source of vitamins – fruit juices provide vitamin C, antioxidants and nutrients.
✔ Natural sweetness – they can be a good alternative to carbonated drinks and artificially sweetened juices.
✔ Better than sweetened drinks – if served in moderation and without added sugar.

Can baby juices have negative effects?

✔ Contains natural sugars – even natural fruit juices can contribute to excess sugar consumption, which can lead to excess weight and tooth decay.
✔ Lack of fiber – unlike whole fruits, juices do not provide fiber, which aids digestion and regulates blood sugar levels.
✔ Possibility of overconsumption – children often drink larger amounts of juice than they should, which may limit their appetite for more nutritious meals.

Homemade Juices for Kids – The Best Alternative

✔ Composition control – homemade juices for children do not contain preservatives or artificial colors.
✔ Possibility to mix different fruits and vegetables – you can create healthy and nutritious combinations.
✔ A better option than store-bought juices – freshly squeezed juices contain more nutrients and have no added sugar.
✔ Homemade juices for babies – when properly prepared, they can be introduced into the infant’s diet as a supplement to breast milk or formula.

How much fluid should a child drink?

✔ Babies (0-6 months) – breast milk or formula only.
✔ Children (6-12 months) – small amounts of water, small amounts of homemade baby juices.
✔ Children (1-3 years) – about 1-1.3 liters of fluids per day, mainly water.
✔ Children (4-8 years old) – about 1.5 liters of fluids per day.
✔ Older children and teenagers – 2-2.5 liters of fluids per day, depending on physical activity and ambient temperature.

Summary

The basis for hydrating children should be water for children, because it best quenches thirst, does not contain sugar and supports healthy development. Juices for children can be a healthy addition to the diet, but it is worth giving them in limited quantities, preferably as homemade juices for children. Homemade juices for infants can be introduced into the diet under control, but it is crucial that they do not replace water or whole fruits. It is worth remembering that healthy eating habits are formed from an early age, so it is worth introducing good choices from the very beginning.