What’s in a drink?

Having so many beverage options, here is a list of which ones are healthy and ones you might want to avoid giving your child. Note that this information is intended for children above a year old.

Alcohol

A BIG NO-NO as it can clearly interfere with a person’s perception of reality and with a child’s developing brain, you certainly wouldn’t want your child to have any lasting harm.

Almond Milk

This contains fewer nutrients and less protein than cow’s milk so this might not be a very good substitute. Plus, sweetened varieties contain added sugar.

Breast Milk

Absolutely the best to give from birth onwards! It is the purest drink, which contains the best source of calories and nutrition, you can never go wrong!

Coconut Milk

It’s not particularly bad for your child’s health, but cow’s milk seems to be a better option. Too much of it can also act as a laxative.

Cow’s Milk

It contains calcium, vitamin D, protein and other nutrients that are highly important for your child’s development. However, do not give your child more than three cups a day or your child may not have room for other food he/she needs.

Energy Drinks

These drinks have no nutritional value and contain large amounts of caffeine, sugar and artificial sweeteners.

Fizzy Drinks

Even adults should stay away from fizzies, so this might be a good option to have your child stay away from it, too. This drink, being the most accessible, it has no nutritional value at all!

Fruit Juices

It depends on what type of fruit juice. If it is homemade, such as throwing fresh fruit into the blender, this is a better option as opposed to buying it packed in bottles, which can sometimes contain a lot of additives.

Flavored Water

The best-flavored water is by throwing in a small piece of lemon in water! It’s very refreshing and healthy, too!

Lactose-free or reduced-lactose milk

This contains the same nutrients found in regular cow’s milk, but somehow tends to taste sweeter than normal. This is absolutely helpful for children who are lactose intolerant.

Lemonade

It’s a great source of vitamin C most especially if you make it yourself at home in comparison to buying at a shop, which can contain a lot of sugar.

Rice Milk

Many parents have different views on this drink. Best to choose a brand that is fortified with calcium and vitamins A, D and B12.

Soy Milk

It is an acceptable alternative to regular cow’s milk but still contains fewer nutrients. Speak to your child’s pediatrician if you choose to raise your little one to have a vegan lifestyle.

Sweetened Drinks

We all know that this contains artificial sweeteners, artificial colouring and added sugars. Though some drinks contain extra sodium, this is something young children don’t need.

Teas

Tea contains antioxidants, which are beneficial for your child’s health. Tea for children is good for cleansing. It also helps maintain a calm stomach. But if you choose to give regular tea as opposed to baby tea, ensure that you serve your child just one small cup and watered down.

Vegetables Juices

This is one of the best ways to ensure your child gets his/her 5-a-day. You might even want to mix a piece of fruit into the drink to make it tastier and less boring to drink.

Water

That is why even adults are recommended to drink a certain amount each day. Water hydrates, helps regulate body temperature, and helps prevent constipation and urinary track infections. It works wonders, a similar effect to drinking tea. Plus, water is important for healthy teeth.

Yoghurt Drinks

It varies so ensure to read the labels. The bacteria cultures may aid digestion and protect the body from harmful bacteria. But avoid flavoured varieties, which contain added sugar.

(Helpful Resource: www.babycentre.com)