Apple Juice Isn't As Healthy As You Think. Here's Why

The old saying goes, "An apple a day keeps the doctor away," and although that may not be completely accurate, research shows that apples are nutritious and can benefit your health (via Harvard Health Publishing). Apple juice, on the other hand, may not be as good for you as you might think. According to Healthline, apple juice is a poor source of nutrients, unlike a whole apple which contains ample vitamin C, fiber, and potassium. Vitamin C is often added to apple juice in the form of ascorbic acid to provide a minimum of 100 percent of the recommended daily intake (RDI) for vitamin C.

Alarmingly, non-organic apple juices may contain another additive, and not the good kind. Pesticides are chemicals used to protect crops from unwanted infestations and these contaminants have been found in many brands of non-organic apple juices. Studies show that long-term exposure to small amounts of pesticides may increase your risk of certain cancers, cause fertility problems, and possibly lead to other health issues.

Through the years, there has been more data showing that sweet, sugary drinks are linked to obesity (via Benioff Children's Hospital). Apple juice is no exception, according to Healthline, as drinking it has been shown to increase weight gain in both children and adults. It's easier to consume more calories by drinking juice rather than by eating whole foods, and research shows that most people will feel fuller after eating an apple than drinking a glass of juice. 

Apple juice is also carb dominant, with 100 percent of its calories stemming from sugars. On average, one cup of unsweetened apple juice contains approximately 24 grams of sugar, yet the higher end of the RDI of sugar is 36 grams (via Harvard Health Publishing). Consuming too much sugar can lead to weight gain, acne, an increased risk of heart disease and diabetes, and might possibly speed up the aging process.

When choosing between eating an apple or gulping down apple juice, the choice is clear — eat the apple, skin and all, to reap the biggest benefits.