It's official: drinking 100% natural fruit juice can actually increase the risk of premature death

Our doctors and dieticians have regularly advised us to eat whole fruits instead of consuming them in the form of fruit juices and smoothies. Unfortunately, because of the speed of our lives, which leaves us little or no time to peel, cut and eat fruit, fresh fruit juices often seem a delicious and easy way to stay healthy.

However, science does not quite approve of fruit juice consumption. While most of us know that soft drinks and other sugary drinks must be avoided at all costs, 100% fruit juices are also not wholesome.

The research

The groundbreaking study was published in the journal JAMA Network Open on Friday. This study links the consumption of sugary drinks and 100% natural fruit juice to premature death. To conduct the research, 13,400 adults were studied, the average age being 64 years and nearly 71% of the participants were overweight or obese.

Volunteers were asked about their daily consumption of sugary drinks, including fruit juices. Over a period of 6 years (on average), 1,168 participants died.

After analyzing their medical records, it was found that an additional dose of 354 ml of sugary drinks a day was associated with a 11% higher all-cause mortality risk, while each additional 354 ml portion fruit juice was associated with a whopping 24%. risk of all-cause mortality higher.

To quote the conclusions of the study in the state, "these results suggest that higher consumption of sugary drinks, including fruit juice, is associated with increased mortality. Sugary drinks have been defined as sweetened beverages (sodas, soft drinks or fruit-flavored drinks) and 100% naturally sweetened fruit juices ".

Simply put, those who consumed the most sugary drinks, including 100% fruit juice, had a higher risk of death during the study than those who drank the least.

What is the final verdict?

Although it's been established that eating whole fruits is healthier every day than drinking fruit juice, according to Guasch-Ferre, co-author of the editorial of a newspaper, "Although fruit juices are not as harmful as sweetened beverages, moderate in children and adults, especially in people trying to control their weight. "

So, should you completely stop drinking fruit juice?


Keeping in mind the results of the study, it is obviously advisable to consume whole fruits because they contain exactly the same nutrients as those contained in the juices minus the high amounts of natural source sugar.

Current recommendations suggest not to drink more than 4 to 6 ounces (113 ml) of juice a day, Guasch-Ferre said.

Our best choice is always to drink water to stay hydrated, but if you do not like to drink pure water, we suggest you add citrus quarters. like lemons and oranges to brighten your drink.


Warning: This article does not replace a qualified medical opinion. Please consult your trusted health professional for more information.