Consumption of 100% Fruit Juice and Risk of Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome: Findings from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999‐2004

Abstract

Few studies have examined the association between 100% fruit juice consumption and obesity and related metabolic outcomes. Analysis of a multiethnic sample of U.S. adults (n=14,196) from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 1999‐2004 examined the association between 100% fruit juice consumption and odds of obesity (body mass index (BMI) = 30 kg/m2) and metabolic syndrome (Adult Treatment Panel III definition). We used logistic regression analysis to estimate the odds of obesity and metabolic syndrome per fruit juice consumption exposure category, while adjusting for covariates that may be confounders of this association. Fruit juice intake was quantified as 'some' (n=3,961) or 'none' on the day of the 24‐hr dietary recall. Consumers of 100% fruit juice, relative to non‐consumers, had lower mean BMI, lower waist circumference, lower HOMA insulin resistance (p<.001). Level of intake (oz/day) had a linear inverse association with these parameters. Consumers relative to non‐consumers had 22% (95% CI = 13% to 30%) lower odds of obesity and 15% (95% CI = 10% to 28%) lower odds of metabolic syndrome. After adjustment for demographics and lifestyle factors, including physical activity, energy intake, and other dietary factors, the lower odds of obesity remained statistically significant, but there was no longer a statistically significant reduction in odds of metabolic syndrome. In conclusion, compared to non‐consumers, 100% fruit juice consumers were leaner, more insulin sensitive, and had lower odds of obesity and metabolic syndrome. The association with obesity remained after controlling for confounding lifestyle factors, while the association with metabolic syndrome was primarily explained by lifestyle factors. Supported by the Juice Products Association.