A study published Monday in the Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine shows that despite general worries that juice might lead to an increment of child obesity levels, the research found no connection between children's consumption of 100 percent fruit juice and their weight.

"One hundred percent juice contributes valuable nutrients in children's diets. This may be an important way for parents to get a serving of fruit into their children's diet," stated lead researcher Theresa A. Nicklas, a professor of pediatrics at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston.

The research analyzed the juice-drinking and diet habits of more than 3,600 children who were involved in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The children had ages between 2 and 11 years and participated in the study between 1999 and 2002. They were weighed and measured. Researchers also noted what types of food and drink the children consumed.

Children who drank 100% natural juice consumed more calories, carbohydrates, vitamins C and B6, potassium, riboflavin, magnesium, iron and folate. They also assimilated less total fat, saturated fat, discretionary fat and added sugar. In addition to that, children who drank juice also ate more whole fruit than those who did not drink juice.

However, although the study contradicts the widespread worries about juice, it doesn’t encourage drinking juice in excess.