With rapid health consciousness in the present scenario of the world, the parents have become attentive to the rate at which these soft drinks are molding and shaping the system of their children. Soft drinks full of sugar and harmful chemicals added to them have posed increased risks such as obesity, dental issues, and hyperactivity. Keeping all this in mind, the parents are increasingly trying to find alternatives that can reduce sugar content in these drinks but will not compromise on their taste. One such alternative, which has been in great demand lately, is fruit cordial. This blog explores the benefits of fruit cordial as a healthy alternative to sugary drinks and how one can introduce it to a child's diet.
What is Fruit Cordial?
Fruit juice, sugar, and water are combined to create fruit cordial, a concentrated syrup. Fruit cordial can be mixed with water or sparkling water as an ideal drink. Unlike carbonated drinks, which are loaded with added sugar and flavoring agents, fruit cordial is a healthy option you can give your children since it is prepared with natural ingredients. With many brands nowadays bringing organic versions, you can assure that you're giving your little bundles of joy something healthy and good tasting at the same time.
The Health Benefits of Fruit Cordial
An important advantage of fruit cordial is that its sugar level can be significantly lower compared with soft drinks generally. It can be mixed with water to reduce the sugar level to the consumer's preference, and the sugar intake will be reduced. This is important when fed to children since they could be more susceptible to reactions from excessive sugar consumption.
- Natural Ingredients: Fruit cordials have natural ingredients taken from real fruit juice; therefore, the compositions contain vitamins and minerals that improve a child's health. For instance, orange and apple fruit juices contain vitamin C and antioxidants capable of fortifying the immune system and enhancing general well-being.
- Hydration: It's essential for children during hot weather or after physical activity. Fruit cordial is a nice way to get them drinking more fluids as part of a healthy diet, and it makes a much tastier and more fun drink than soda. Mix cordial with water or sparkling water, and that'll hydrate them with no extra calories and sugars.
- Versatility: Fruit cordial is so versatile. Beyond its drink form, you can use it in many other ways. You can add it to your smoothies, add it on top of your yogurt or ice cream, or even mix it into your homemade popsicles. It means you can involve fruit cordial in your child's diet in very creative and entertaining ways.
How to Choose the Right Fruit Cordial
Tips When Choosing Fruit Cordials for Your Children
- Check the ingredients: Ensure that you get cordials whose production involves real fruit juice content and minimal added sugars. Never opt for products with artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives; a few ingredients generally mean better.
- Organic: If possible, use organic fruit cordials. Organic fruits are grown without chemical pesticides and fertilizers, which makes them healthier for your family to consume.
- Read Nutrition Label: Compare and read labels with regards to sugar content and serving sizes. Steer clear of cordials with high sugar per serving.
- Taste experience: As children are by nature finicky eaters, the variety of flavors can keep things alive and interesting. Try berry, citrus, or tropical fruit cordials and discover which ones your children like most.
Making Your Own Fruit Cordial
It is a real delight to make yourself because it can be so rewarding to do fruit cordial at home. Here is the simplest recipe you can use:
Homemade Fruit Cordial Recipe
Ingredients
2 cups of fresh or frozen fruit, such as strawberries, raspberries, or peaches
1 cup of sugar, or natural sweetener, honey, or agave syrup
2 cups of water
Juice of 1 lemon, optional
Instructions:
In a saucepan, combine fruit, sugar, and water. This mixture should be brought to a boil over medium heat. The sugar should dissolve after stirring.
Reduce the heat and let it simmer until it's around 10 to 15 minutes, until the fruit breaks down and becomes thick.
Remove it from heat and cool. If you choose, strain the mixture through a fine screen to get rid of the pulp.
Store in a spotless bottle in the refrigerator. Three parts water or sparkling water should be combined with one part cordial to serve.
Conclusion
Fruit cordial may be enjoyed as a scrumptious and healthy soft drink substitute for children. Due to its lower sugar content and utilization of natural ingredients, fruit cordial will be an excellent addition to your child's diet. Drinking fruit cordial hydrates the body and introduces a healthier, nutritious drink into the system. Whether one buys it in the shops or does it in-house, it may be fun to get children to drink healthier beverages. So, next time your child grabs for an alcoholic soda, try to offer them a glass of fruit cordial instead—it's a choice you can both be happy about!
