Relationship between 100% juice consumption and nutrient intake and weight of adolescents

This study investigated the associations among 100% juice consumption, nutrient intake, and measures of weight in adolescents.

A cross-sectional secondary analysis of data from adolescents aged 12 to 18 years (n = 3939) participating in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999-2002 was conducted to assess nutrient and weight in categories of 100% juice consumption.

Least square means and logistic regression analyses were generated, and were adjusted for gender, age, ethnicity, and energy intake. Analyses were Bonferroni corrected with an effective p value of .0125.

Twenty-eight percent of adolescents (51% male, 42% Hispanic, 25% non-Hispanic white, 29% non-Hispanic black) consumed 100% juice the day of the recall. The mean amount of 100% juice consumed was 3.7 ounces (2.2% of energy intake). Compared with non-juice consumers, carbohydrate, fiber, vitamins C and B6, folate, potassium, copper, magnesium, and iron intakes of juice consumers were higher, and intakes of fat and saturated fatty acids were lower. Those consuming greater than 6 ounces of juice consumed more servings of fruit and less discretionary fat and added sugar than nonconsumers. No differences were found in weight by juice consumption group.

In conclusion, when compared with non-juice consumers, adolescents consuming 100% juice did not show mean increased weight measures. Juice provided valuable nutrients, and consumption was associated with lower intakes of total fat, saturated fatty acids, discretionary fat, and added sugars and with higher intakes of whole fruit; however, consumption was not associated with decreased intake of milk, meat, or grains.