At what age can cocoa be given to a child?

Many people love drinking cocoa because of its warming, comforting flavor. It makes sense that parents would want to know when it’s okay to introduce it to their kids. Even though cocoa might seem like a harmless treat, it’s vital to take into account the potential effects on developing bodies.

The child’s age, general health, and dietary requirements are among the many variables that determine when it is appropriate to offer cocoa. While some parents might be eager to give it to their child right away, others might want to wait until the child is older and more mature.

In this piece, we’ll discuss when it’s okay to give chocolate to kids, potential risks, and ways to incorporate it into a balanced diet. Making an informed choice for your child will be made easier if you are aware of the benefits and drawbacks.

What is cocoa

The "cocoa" beverage is made from the fruits of the same-named evergreen tree. The ancient Aztecs dubbed it "bitter water" when they brewed it for the first time. Upon the arrival of the fruits in Europe, a beverage was exclusively prepared for aristocracy. It wasn’t until the 18th century that regular people started drinking it. Nowadays, the majority of the beans used to make cocoa powder are grown in Africa, and the beverage is consumed all over the world.

What is useful

• The child will receive valuable proteins, fiber, phosphorus, zinc, calcium, vitamin B9, iron and other substances.
• Stimulates endorphine synthesis, so cocoa improves mood.
• Richly polyunsaturated fats that are relevant to the formation of cell membranes. Such fatty acids reduce the level of harmful cholesterol.
• Attracts with its pleasant chocolate taste and is remarkably quenching hunger. It is useful to give it to thin children.
• Theobromine in the composition is capable of slightly inhibiting the cough reflex, Therefore, the drink is recommended for dry coughing that torments the child.
• If the baby refuses milk, then cocoa will help to get out of this situation without conflicts, After all, for its preparation, a prescription is usually used in milk.
• The biologically active compounds that are contained in it have a positive effect on mental activity. Drinking cocoa in the morning will improve a schoolchild"s performance and relieve stress from stress during lessons.
• It has the property of accelerating the recovery processes in muscles after physical exertion, therefore, such a drink is recommended for children attending sports sections.

Harm and contraindications

• Allergies may occur, therefore, if there is a tendency to allergic reactions, acquaintance with such a drink is postponed to a later age (at least up to 3 years). A negative reaction is manifested by spots on the skin, an itchy rash, inflammation of the eyelids and other symptoms. If they appear, you should immediately cancel the drink and consult a doctor.
• It is a source of caffeine and theobromine, the properties of which are similar. These compounds in excess increase the child"s activity and excite the nervous system. For this reason, cocoa should be abandoned in case of hyperactivity, as well as for children with a choleric temperament.
• Drinking cocoa at night can prevent a child from falling asleep.
• Preparing the drink involves adding milk and sugar, so cocoa is quite high in calories. This determines the limitation of its use in children with excess weight.
• If you give it to a child before meals, the baby may refuse food, since the drink is quite filling.
• It is contraindicated for children with impaired kidney function, as well as problems with purine metabolism.
• Too frequent use can provoke constipation.
• The drink can cause the appearance of migraines.

From what age to give to children?

Physicians advise against giving cocoa to infants under one year old and suggest introducing this beverage to toddlers no earlier than two years old. An increased risk of allergies is linked to undesirable use at one year of age. Furthermore, for a child of that age, excess sugar and increased activity are not necessary. For this reason, a toddler or older child older than two years old should be offered the first cup.

A couple of spoonfuls of the beverage should be the first portion. In this manner, the mother will be able to determine whether the child can handle chocolate well or if the introduction should wait until the child is between three and five years old. The product’s volume can be increased the following time if, by the evening, the child has not developed a skin rash or other allergy symptoms following the morning portion of the drink. The portion is raised to the age norm very gradually and cautiously.

How much can a child drink?

The recommended daily allowance of cocoa for children ages 2 to 5 is 50 milliliters, and they should only have the beverage no more than four times per week. The best breakfast option for kids is cocoa. At preschool age, let such a sweet beverage be a rare treat; starting at age six, it can be consumed more frequently, possibly even daily. A schoolchild under the age of ten may consume up to 100 milliliters at a time; as they get older, they can consume 150–250 milliliters.

Children as young as two to three years old can start consuming cocoa in moderation, but it’s crucial to take into account each child’s unique health and any allergies. Their digestive system is more developed at this age, which facilitates the easier processing of cocoa. Serve it as a special treat instead of a regular beverage, though, as cocoa contains sugar and caffeine that can interfere with sleep and energy. Before adding new foods or beverages to a child’s diet, always check with their pediatrician to make sure it meets their nutritional needs.

Komarovsky"s opinion

Komarovsky stresses to parents that cocoa is an energy source while also referring to it as a healthy beverage for kids. One cup of cocoa a day won’t hurt you, the well-known doctor says, but mothers should be aware that it will make their babies more active, so avoid drinking it at night.

In the video below, a doctor makes a brief statement.

How to choose

Make sure to carefully read the label and note the expiration date when purchasing cocoa powder for baby food. You can determine which drink is superior by looking at its composition; it shouldn’t have any flavors, dyes, or preservatives.

Stores sell chocolate-flavored drinks, like Nesquik. However, in spite of their aggressive marketing, they are not as beneficial as regular cocoa powder. Hence, for small children, only purchase natural products.

Verify that the powder is homogeneous, has tiny particles, and is a deep chocolate color after opening the package. Gray or whitish cocoa powder should be thrown out because it is spoiled. Keep it in a tightly closed container and store it somewhere dry.

How to cook

Pour 1.5 teaspoons of cocoa powder into a saucepan to make a tasty beverage. Make sure there are no lumps by adding the same amount of sugar and mixing well. Add 100 milliliters of steaming water, stir continuously, and heat over medium heat until it reaches a boil. Finally, add 150 milliliters of heated milk.

The drink should be heated slowly and taken off the stove before the cocoa boils. Using a whisk, whisk the beverage for 15 seconds, or until foam starts to form. By mixing the ingredients thoroughly, you can avoid the formation of a film, which is a common reason why children refuse this drink.

You can adjust the ratio of sugar to cocoa powder based on the child’s preferences. While some prefer a drink with more sweetness, others prefer one with more chocolate flavor. Reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe if the cocoa is to be served with cookies or another sweet treat. By including vanilla, cinnamon, condensed milk, baked milk, or cream while it’s cooking, you can vary the recipe.

It can be consumed warm or cold by a preschooler. A few young ones truly enjoy sipping it through a cocktail straw.

Desserts for older kids can be made by covering a scoop of ice cream with cold cocoa and topping it with chocolate chips and whipped cream.

Schoolchildren can be served a vitamin C-rich cocktail in the winter months. To make it, blend together two tablespoons of cocoa powder, one glass of milk, and three tablespoons of rosehip syrup in a blender. To taste, you can also add any berries or other fruits to this beverage.

For kids, cocoa can be a tasty treat, but it’s crucial to introduce it at the appropriate age. The majority of experts advise delaying giving cocoa to your child until they are between two and three years old. This is due to the fact that chocolate contains sugar and caffeine, which may be too much for younger kids. It’s best to serve it in moderation even at this age.

If your child is to have cocoa, make sure it’s made with milk to add extra nutrients, such as calcium. You can also select cocoa powder that hasn’t been sweetened and regulate how much sugar is added. Steer clear of pre-made cocoa mixes because they frequently have significant sugar and additive content.

Keep an eye out for any reactions in your child, particularly if they have dietary allergies. Given that each child is unique, what works for one might not work for another. If you are unsure whether to introduce new foods to your child’s diet, always get advice from your pediatrician.

Video on the topic

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From what age can a child be given cocoa