Until after 2 years old (minimal), which item should you NOT introduce to children?

• A. Juice or other drinks
• B. Milk
• C. Water
• D. Solid foods

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that young teeth are especially vulnerable to decay from sugary drinks, so we limit these beverages in early childhood. Juice and other sweet drinks deliver a high load of fermentable sugars that oral bacteria turn into acids, which can demineralize enamel if exposure is frequent or lasting a long time. This risk is greatest when the beverage is sipped throughout the day or given in a bottle or sippy cup, close to bedtime, because sugars stay in contact with teeth. For this reason, juice and similar drinks are avoided until after age two, and if introduced, portions are kept small and limited to meals to minimize constant exposure. Juice offers little nutritional advantage over whole fruit and can crowd out healthier options. In contrast, milk and water are appropriate choices: milk provides calcium and other nutrients essential for teeth, while water hydrates without sugar. Solid foods are introduced around six months and are important for overall development and nutrition.