Did you know that some kinds of fruit juice contain over 20 grams of sugar per cup? That’s just as much (and sometimes even more) than sugary sodas. It’s a shocking amount, especially considering children between the ages of two and eighteen are recommended to limit sugar consumption to 25 grams per day.
If you need ideas for healthy drinks for your children, keep reading. We’ll give you nutritious options that are just as tasty.
Homemade Smoothies
Homemade smoothies are a fun opportunity to gather ingredients and prep everything. Some components to use for healthy drinks for kids include:
- Peach and Mango
- Pineapple and Spinach
- Strawberries and Banana
Use plant-based milk and yogurt as a base. You can also include chia seeds, nuts or nut butter, coconut flakes, or bee pollen as toppings or add-ins.
Soy Milk
Drinking milk is a go-to for many kids, but did you know that soy milk has just as much protein as its dairy alternative? It is similarly fortified with vitamins and minerals. Soy milk is also naturally cholesterol-free and contains low levels of saturated fat and no lactose.
It is a good choice if you want your child to build better eating habits as well. For example, use it in place of dairy milk, such as in cold cereal.
Fruit Water Infusions
The first drink you should give your child when they’re thirsty is water, but parents know that is not always an option. If they refuse plain water, you can switch things up by adding fresh or frozen fruit. Let your child pick out their favorite fruits and prep them together using cookie cutters or a crinkle cut knife.
Tasty combos are pineapple and strawberry, raspberry and lemon, orange and cranberry, watermelon and blueberry. Regardless of what you choose, you should be aware of how sippy cups for baby and toddlers can cause jaw and teeth problems.
Coconut Water
Coconut water is a nutrient-rich drink that contains high levels of electrolytes, natural sugars, vitamins, minerals, and protein. Unsweetened and unflavored coconut water is also a good option for children after stomach flu.
The body uses a lot of electrolytes, such as magnesium, sodium, potassium, and calcium, when throwing up. A mix of plain water and coconut water is an excellent way to rehydrate and replenish salts lost. It is a better alternative to sugary sports drinks.
Herbal Tea
Herbal teas are generally caffeinate-free, unsweetened, and safe for kids. Herbal tea types like chamomile are not just good alternatives to drinking juice. They can induce a calming effect and make falling asleep easier.
Chamomile, mint, and lemongrass herbal tea can also have a soothing effect on the digestive system, relieving symptoms like gas, bloating, and an upset stomach.
Make sure whatever tea you make for your child is naturally caffeine-free. Decaffeinated beverages still have traces left behind. Do not give them too much. Tea contains a type of compound that binds with iron in the blood and can impact oxygen absorption in large amounts.
Additionally, it is okay to let older kids have a little honey in their tea every once in a while. However, children 12 months old or younger should never be given honey as it can cause infant botulism.
Healthy Drinks for Children Made Simple
It can feel like getting your children to eat a well-rounded diet or consume more healthy drinks is impossible. Try out these ideas like coconut water, herbal tea, and soy milk. You can even get your kids involved in preparing smoothies or fruit-infused water!
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