Carbohydrate absorption from fruit juices in infants

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Nutrition
• Gastroenterology
• Infant Feeding Practices

Background:

• Infant carbohydrate absorption is crucial for growth and development.
• Previous studies on fruit juice absorption used higher quantities than typically consumed.
• Understanding the impact of common infant beverages on digestion is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare carbohydrate absorption from white grape and pear juice in infants.
• To assess the effects of these juices on stool water content.
• To evaluate safety and tolerability at a lower dosage (10 mL/kg) over 2 weeks.

Main Methods:

• Twelve healthy infants (5-9 months) participated.
• Breath hydrogen tests were used to assess carbohydrate absorption after single and repeated juice intake.
• Stool water content and fecal (13)C enrichment were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Carbohydrate from both grape and pear juice was well absorbed, with no significant differences in breath hydrogen levels.
• No adverse gastrointestinal symptoms were reported.
• Stool water content remained unchanged after 2 weeks of juice consumption.

Conclusions:

• White grape and pear juice, when given at 10 mL/kg/day, are well-absorbed by healthy infants.
• These juices do not cause adverse gastrointestinal effects or alter stool water.
• The study supports the use of these juices as safe options for infant nutrition.