Choosing sugary drinks over fruit juice for toddlers has been found to be linked to the risk of adult obesity, according to a recent study by the School of Psychology at Swansea University. The study, published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, followed 14,000 British children from birth to adulthood, making it one of the longest studies of its kind.

Researchers discovered that children who consumed sugary drinks like cola or sugar-sweetened fruit cordials before the age of two tended to gain more weight by the time they reached 24 years old. Interestingly, girls who had pure fruit juice gained less weight compared to those who consumed fizzy drinks, while boys’ weight remained relatively stable.

At the age of three, toddlers who drank cola were found to consume more calories, fat, protein, and sugar but less fiber. On the other hand, those given pure apple juice consumed less fat and sugar but had higher fiber intake. This difference in dietary patterns extended to food choices, with children who consumed pure apple juice opting for a diet rich in fish, fruit, green vegetables, and salad, while those drinking cola tended to consume more fast food items like burgers, sausages, pizza, and sweets.

The study also revealed a correlation between sugar-sweetened drinks and social deprivation, indicating that children from more affluent backgrounds were more likely to have access to pure fruit juice. Lead researcher Professor David Benton emphasized the importance of establishing healthy dietary habits early in life to prevent weight gain. He highlighted that while pure fruit juice provides essential nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, folate, and plant polyphenols, it is crucial to limit fat and sugar intake.

Dr. Hayley Young underscored the significance of addressing childhood dietary habits to combat obesity, a major health concern associated with various other conditions. The study suggests that the roots of adult obesity can be traced back to early childhood diets, emphasizing the need for greater attention to nutrition in the early years of life.