Thirsty for a healthy alternative to soft drinks? Look no further than the fruit juice aisle, where you’ll find a variety of flavors and a wealth of nutrients.

One thing to keep in mind, though: The best choices are 100% fruit juices that contain no added sugar or high fructose corn syrup, both of which are linked to obesity.

In fact, consumers who want the purest fruit juice available are choosing organic juices because they’re produced without pesticides, hormones and antibiotics. Before a food can be labeled organic, a government-approved certifier inspects the farm where the food is grown to make sure the farmer meets U.S. Department of Agriculture standards. Companies that handle or process organic food also must be certified.

Organic 100% fruit juice can be part of a healthy diet that follows the USDA Food Pyramid. Most fruit servings should come from whole fruits, however, with a portion of the suggested daily intake from 100% juice. Remember that a half-cup serving of 100% fruit juice equals one-half cup of fruit.

Because they come from plants, 100% fruit juices are a rich source of vitamins, minerals and compounds that are found only in plants:

Apples may reduce LDL, or bad cholesterol, lower the risk of stroke and help the lungs. They’re also rich in the mineral boron, which may promote bone health.

Berries are loaded with antioxidants, substances that protect the body from toxic substances that damage cells and cause disease.

Cranberries have been shown to help prevent urinary tract infections. They act as a sort of natural antibiotic for the urinary system.

Citrus fruits are packed with vitamin C, which may help prevent infection. They also contain folate, potassium, vitamin B6, thiamine and niacin.

Grapes contain vitamin C, plus plant chemicals that may help protect against heart disease and certain cancers.

Pomegranates are rich in potassium and vitamin C — and research shows they may help fight prostate cancer and heart disease.

Pineapples contain vitamin C and bromelain, an enzyme that has been shown to calm inflammation linked to asthma and to relieve indigestion, stomach upset and heartburn.

Try these tips for adding organic 100% fruit juice to your family’s daily diet:

• Combine two different fruit juices for a snack
• Prepare a juice float by mixing several fruit juices and adding a scoop of frozen yogurt
• Freeze boxes or cans of juice and tuck them into school lunch boxes or backpacks
• Blend two types of fruit juices in smoothies

Trade in the soft drinks for organic 100% fruit juice. You’ll not only taste the difference, but you may start feeling the difference, thanks to all those vitamins and nutrients!