Drinking anything is simply about hydrating the body. Since the body cannot make water, fluids must be consumed daily to maintain a balanced amount of water. You may not feel thirsty, but your body still needs a certain amount of water to perform basic functions. A general rule for adequate fluid consumption is eight 8-ounce glasses per day.
Because the body needs water, water is an extremely healthy drink choice. For variety, low-fat or fat-free milk and 100% juice are great healthy drinks, too. Not only do you receive hydration from the water component of the milk and juice, you also receive vitamins and minerals. Eight ounces of fat-free milk contain protein, vitamins A and D, and calcium. Eight ounces of orange juice contain vitamins A and C and calcium. Juice and milk also contain calories that contribute to your daily caloric intake, so try to have a combination of milk, juice, and water.
If looking at an average day of healthy drinks for children or adults, it would be better to include more water and low-fat milk. While juice can add vitamins and minerals, it can add extra calories.
Guidelines for juice (from WIC)
Children 6 months and older: 4 ounces
Children ages 1-6: 4-6 ounces
Youth ages 7-18: 8-12 ounces
References:
Sharing Center: Milk Lesson. Retrieved September 15, 2008 from http://www.nal.usda.gov/wicworks/Sharing_Center/VA/milk_lesson.doc
More than one in three older Americans may not drink enough water. USDA Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion. (September 2002). Retrieved September 15, 2008 from www.cnpp.usda.gov/Publications/NutritionInsights/Insight27.pdf
