The Benefits of Fruit Juice

In the past, family physician Pamela Rockwell has told parents to restrict the amount of fruit juice consumed by their children because of its link to obesity. However, in light of a recent study that found no connection between obesity and 100 percent fruit juice without sugar, her advice has changed. Other studies have also found that many fruit juices have numerous health benefits with the potential to prevent or cure diseases.

Here are some juices with significant benefits: Pomegranate juice is a rich source of antioxidants and has been shown to lower LDL cholesterol, which is known to clog arteries. It also has the potential to slow the growth of prostate cancer by stabilizing a man's levels of prostate specific antigens. Pomegranate juice has also been found to increase blood flow to the heart for people with ischemic coronary heart disease.

Cranberry juice has long been known as the home remedy for urinary tract infections but recent discoveries indicate it may be most helpful before the infection even develops. Blueberries have similar properties to cranberries and also prevents urinary tract infections. Orange juice may help prevent the occurences of kidney stones. A recent study found that a daily glass of orange juice can reduce the risk of kidney stone incidence even when compared to other citrus drinks, like lemonade.

A 2006 study found that people who drank fruit or vegetable juices more than three times a week were 76 percent less likely to develop Alzheimer's than others who drank juice less than once a week. Rockwell warns that not all juice is healthy and consumers should watch for juices containing high fructose corn syrup. She notes that "It leads to the buildup of fat cells, and contributes to the obesity problem in the U.S. and other industrialized nations."