NEW DELHI, Oct. 17, 2025

Many people believe drinking fruit juice is a healthy way to get vitamins, whether it’s fresh-squeezed or packaged in tetra packs. However, Dr. Shubham Vatsya, a gastroenterologist and hepatologist at Fortis Hospital, Vasant Kunj, Delhi, has warned that fruit juices may not be as healthy as they seem and can carry hidden health risks.

In a social media post on October 13, Dr. Vatsya explained that fruit juices, even those made from fresh fruits, are not a substitute for whole fruits. “It may sound harsh, but fruit juices are harmful. Start calling them ‘sugar syrups’ and completely stop giving them if you think fruit juice is healthy for your child,” he said.

Dr. Vatsya explained that when juice is made from several pieces of fruit, the fibre is removed. Without fibre, the fructose from the fruit is absorbed directly into the bloodstream. This can lead to rapid spikes in insulin, followed by sugar crashes. Over time, frequent consumption of such juices may increase the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and dental cavities, particularly among children.

He advises that instead of giving fruit juice, parents should encourage children to eat whole fruits. Whole fruits retain fibre, which slows the absorption of sugar and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels. Fibre also aids digestion and provides a feeling of fullness, which can prevent overeating and weight gain.

Scientific studies support these concerns. A 2024 study published in Food Structure found that the level of processing in fruit juices and fruit-based beverages affects their health impact. Minimally or moderately processed juices retain more nutrients and can provide some health benefits. In contrast, highly processed juices, which are stripped of fibre and often contain concentrated sugars, are linked to higher risks of obesity, metabolic disorders, and other health problems.

Dr. Vatsya’s warnings are a reminder that not all fruit-based drinks are equally healthy. While fresh fruits offer vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants in a balanced form, fruit juices remove many of these benefits and replace them with concentrated sugar. Even juices labeled as “100% natural” or “no added sugar” can still pose risks if they are highly processed.

He emphasized that consumers should read labels carefully, limit consumption of packaged juices, and focus on whole fruits in daily diets. Parents, in particular, should be cautious about giving children fruit juice as a regular snack or part of meals.

While fruit juices can be a convenient and tasty option, understanding their effects on health is important. Experts like Dr. Vatsya recommend moderation and awareness to prevent long-term health issues caused by excess sugar intake. Whole fruits remain the safest and healthiest choice to get natural nutrients without the hidden risks of processed juice.

In conclusion, daily consumption of fruit juices, even when considered healthy, can act like “sugar syrups,” leading to insulin spikes, sugar crashes, and increased risks of obesity, diabetes, and dental problems. Choosing whole fruits instead ensures better nutrition, stable blood sugar levels, and overall better health for adults and children alike.

 Fruit Juices May Be “Sugar Syrups,” Warns Fortis Doctor

Dr. Shubham Vatsya, gastroenterologist at Fortis Hospital, warns that daily fruit juices, whether fresh or packaged, may be more harmful than people realize. Juices remove the fibre from fruits, causing sugar to enter the bloodstream quickly, leading to insulin spikes, sugar crashes, and long-term health risks like obesity, type 2 diabetes, and dental problems. Even “natural” juices can be highly processed and sugar-heavy. Dr. Vatsya advises eating whole fruits instead, which retain fibre and nutrients, slow sugar absorption, and support overall health. Moderation and awareness are key to avoiding hidden dangers in fruit-based drinks.