Access to cranberry juice on wic: unraveling the eligibility criteria
What To Know
- Cranberry juice can be a healthy addition to the diet of WIC participants, especially if it is recommended by a healthcare provider.
- If you are a WIC participant and you are interested in getting cranberry juice on WIC, talk to your healthcare provider and your local WIC clinic.
- Yes, you may be able to get cranberry juice on WIC if your child is under the age of 5 and your healthcare provider recommends it.
Cranberry juice is a popular beverage known for its tart and tangy flavor. It is also a good source of vitamin C and other nutrients. But can you get cranberry juice on WIC? The answer is yes, in certain circumstances.
WIC Eligibility
WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) is a federal nutrition program that provides food assistance to low-income pregnant women, new mothers, and children up to age 5. WIC participants receive monthly food vouchers that can be used to purchase a variety of healthy foods, including fruits, vegetables, milk, and whole grains.
Cranberry Juice on WIC
Cranberry juice is not a WIC-approved food item in all states. However, some states do allow WIC participants to purchase cranberry juice if it is recommended by a healthcare provider.
Why Cranberry Juice May Be Recommended on WIC
Healthcare providers may recommend cranberry juice for WIC participants for several reasons:
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Cranberry juice has been shown to help prevent and treat UTIs.
- Antioxidant properties: Cranberry juice is a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect against damage caused by free radicals.
- Vitamin C: Cranberry juice is a good source of vitamin C, which is essential for immune function and wound healing.
How to Get Cranberry Juice on WIC
If you are a WIC participant and your healthcare provider recommends cranberry juice, you can follow these steps to get it on WIC:
1. Get a prescription from your healthcare provider. The prescription should state the recommended amount of cranberry juice and the reason for the recommendation.
2. Bring the prescription to your local WIC clinic. The WIC staff will review the prescription and determine if cranberry juice is a WIC-approved food item in your state.
3. If cranberry juice is approved on WIC in your state, you will be given a voucher for the recommended amount. You can use the voucher to purchase cranberry juice at authorized WIC grocery stores.
Other WIC-Approved Beverages
In addition to cranberry juice, other WIC-approved beverages include:
- Milk
- Yogurt drinks
- Soy milk
- Almond milk
- Coconut milk
Final Note
Cranberry juice can be a healthy addition to the diet of WIC participants, especially if it is recommended by a healthcare provider. If you are a WIC participant and you are interested in getting cranberry juice on WIC, talk to your healthcare provider and your local WIC clinic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I get cranberry juice on WIC if I am not pregnant or breastfeeding?
A: Yes, you may be able to get cranberry juice on WIC if your child is under the age of 5 and your healthcare provider recommends it.
Q: How much cranberry juice can I get on WIC?
A: The amount of cranberry juice you can get on WIC will vary depending on your state and the recommendation of your healthcare provider.
Q: Can I use my WIC vouchers to purchase cranberry juice concentrate?
A: No, WIC vouchers can only be used to purchase pure cranberry juice.
