Feeding kids with healthy food is a challenging task, and getting them to choose nutritious drinks is even harder. Healthy drinks are vital for children's growth, as they require a higher proportion of macronutrients and micronutrients and an adequate supply of fluids for hydration. In this blog, we will discuss how to choose healthy drinks for kids.
What is a "Healthy Drink"?
- A healthy drink is one that is both nutritious and easy to digest.
- It should have a higher proportion of macronutrients and micronutrients required for children's growth.
- It should help in keeping them hydrated and constipation at bay.
- It should include natural sugars, as opposed to the sugars found in store-bought products.
- It should be a good source of nutrients that are important for your child's development.
Benefits of Kids' Healthy Drinks:
- Helps keep them hydrated.
- Helps keep constipation at bay.
- Boosts immunity with antioxidants found in certain fruits.
- Aids in the growth and development of your child.
- Provides protein, vitamin D, calcium, DHA, iron, iodine, selenium, and vitamin A.
Healthy Drinks for Kids:
- Water: crucial for many bodily functions, including temperature regulation and organ function.
- Milk without sweetness: loaded with nutrients required for growth and development.
- Dairy-free soya milk: nutritionally appropriate substitute for cow's milk.
- Coconut milk: high in healthy fats and vitamins and minerals.
- Rice milk: the most hypoallergenic milk available.
- Hazelnut milk: a great dairy-free alternative to classic hot chocolate.
- Oat milk: mildly sweet and rich in dietary fibre, polyphenols, and antioxidants.
- Flavoured water: infused with fresh fruits and herbs.
- Coconut water: great for rehydrating kids who have diarrhoea and restoring the body's natural salts.
- Herbal tea: naturally caffeine-free options like chamomile or peppermint can be a soothing and hydrating choice for kids.
- Vegetable juice: a great way to sneak in some extra veggies, just make sure to choose options without added sodium or sugar.
- Kombucha (in moderation): a fermented tea that contains beneficial probiotics, but limited to small amounts due to its acidity.
- Smoothies: Delicious and nutritious drink made with a variety of fruits and vegetables, an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Kefir: High in probiotics that promote gut health and boost the immune system, a tasty and nutritious drink for kids.
- Herbal teas: Healthy and soothing drink options that can provide various health benefits such as relaxation, digestion, and stomach discomfort.
- Homemade lemonade: Healthier alternative to store-bought versions, made with fresh lemons and sweetened with a small amount of honey or maple syrup.
Conclusion
Remember that water should always be the primary source of hydration for kids, and it's important to limit sugary drinks and opt for lower-sugar options when possible.
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