Tea for Toddlers: can children drink herbal tea?

There are several doubts about the consumption of teas for babies and children. The truth is that the World Health Organization (WHO) does not recommend the consumption of teas or infusions before six months. Up to this age, they should only consume breast milk. Even with an opening for the consumption of other foods. Hence, it is important to know the natural plants and herbs that can be used according to their active principles.

Can the teas be sweetened for better comfort for the child? The answer is quite controversial for many parents. However, as tea is a drink based on natural ingredients, the addition of a sweetening element will, possibly, detract from its medicinal potential. This habituation of the sweet taste of tea may potentiate the gradual increase in preference for foods with sugar. Something that may not be beneficial for children's health.

But, after all, which teas can be given to children? Let's start by removing all types of tea with caffeine, such as black tea and mate. Check out the teas that can be offered to the little ones. Good reading!

The importance of tea in childhood

Before starting the practice of tea consumption, it is essential to understand the importance of this healthy option for children. The first step begins with the notion of the recommended dosage and time for tea. The conscious consumption of this drink can only favour the well-being of the child when practised according to its recommendations.

You should also pay attention to the choice of tea type and the state in which it is presented. Generally, it is preferable to select fresh ingredients to better capture their active ingredients. However, it is not always easy to have access to plants or herbs in their natural state. To this difficult access for some parents, it is possible to prepare this drink with dehydrated ingredients. They, too, are full of properties and benefits.

In most cases, babies and children respond well to tea consumption. However, it is important to be aware. We have different organisms, and a child will always be more exposed to possible adverse reactions when drinking some tea. If the child develops a reaction towards tea due to its taste, it is important to emphasize the importance of its consumption without added sugar. If you insist, you can add a reduced quantity of honey. Remember that you can only do this for children over one year of age.

Regarding the preparation, special attention to the temperature of the water is recommended. As this is a natural solution for babies and children, you must heat the water until the first bubbles appear. It will not be necessary to boil the water. You can start by applying half of this water in a cup, applying the tea ingredients and waiting for the infusion time. After this action, you can balance the water temperature by adding cold water. Test the temperature before giving it to the baby or child.

The best options for this healthy drink for children are fruit and herbal teas prepared with mineral water. Tea is recommended after main meals. It will not be recommended before due to the tea's influence on satiety. Probably the best will be before bed.

Avoiding teas or infusions with caffeine will be related to their negative influence on sleep, energy and immunity of babies and children.

Teas for babies and children

• Chamomile - recommended for babies over 6 months of age;
• Rosehip;
• Lemon Balm;
• Linden;
• Valerian;
• Peppermint;
• Fennel - recommended for babies over 6 months of age;
• Anise;
• Mallow;
• Lemongrass.

Until the next article!

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