What cocoa is best for children. When can you give your child cocoa: how to choose and prepare. When is it better to drink cocoa - morning or evening

Cocoa is a drink with a unique taste and reminiscent of childhood. Its excellent aroma allows you to plunge into memories and feel your mother's warm hug and smile. As you know, kids are not indifferent to chocolate drinks, but parents often think about the age at which children can take cocoa. After all, such drinks are recommended to be introduced into the diet with extreme caution, since in the presence of contraindications, a chocolate drink contributes to the occurrence of allergic reactions and disruption of the gastrointestinal tract. But following the basic recommendations for drinking the drink will help dispel all doubts.

in the baby's diet

According to experts, one should carefully consider the dosage of cocoa for children. At what age you can give it is a very individual question. For children who are not prone to allergic reactions, the drink is indicated from the age of two, but as a rare delicacy. And it is best to introduce a chocolate drink into the diet no earlier than three years of age.

It is worthwhile to think carefully about whether it is worth experimenting and offering the child a drink ahead of time. It is necessary to worry because of the presence of a huge amount of sugar and aromatic substances in its composition, which obviously will not benefit children.

Parents should carefully consider the choice of the product on which the baby's health will depend. After all, the solution to the problem associated with the age at which a child can be given cocoa requires special care. The thing is that, as already mentioned, this product contributes to the occurrence of allergic reactions. Therefore, it is important to determine that the child's body has correctly perceived it.

It is advisable not to overdo it and give the baby no more than two cups of drink per week. It is recommended to increase the amount of consumed product only after 6 years. However, you should not drink more than 2 small cups of it at a time. And after the age of ten, you can drink the drink daily. At this age, the maximum amount of cocoa is calculated based on the proportion of 0.5 grams per day per kilogram of weight.

Try to give the drink to your baby in the morning, so that the invigorating effect of it does not prevent the baby from falling asleep in a quiet hour or in the evening.

Features of the drink

During the preparation of the diet, it is important to determine at what age a child can drink cocoa. It is an invigorating drink that works alongside an antidepressant and helps fight anemia, thanks to the presence of iron, zinc and folic acid in the composition.

Despite the advantages, the chocolate drink has some disadvantages. As you know, the composition of cocoa beans contains a small amount of purine, which helps the body to process proteins, and is also actively involved in the regulation of metabolic activity. But with an excess of this substance, uric acid accumulates, which can lead to the development of diseases of the urinary system.

Of course, it is possible and necessary to give cocoa to children, but you should definitely use common sense. Do not forget that your child's nutrition must be balanced.

Child health benefits

At what age children can cocoa is a rather urgent problem, its solution requires a special approach. This drink in the diet is not healthier than fruit drinks, natural juices or compotes, due to the lack of useful vitamins and minerals necessary for the child's body. But it also has undoubted advantages with strict adherence to the dosage:

• If children do not want to eat in the morning, then a glass of the drink will perfectly satisfy hunger for a while.
• The presence of theobromine in the composition helps to suppress the cough reflex. During illness, the child can be given warm cocoa to soothe an excruciating dry cough.
• Thanks to the tonic effect, the child's body can endure physical activity and endurance increases.
• The unique aroma and rather pleasant taste help to improve the baby's mood.

If no contraindications have been identified by the doctor, then the prescribed dose of cocoa per day will not be superfluous.

We take precautions

We repeat that, despite the addiction of children to cocoa, you should be careful with this drink. The presence of caffeine in it often causes allergies in children. And this is the main drawback, because of which most parents think about how old children can get cocoa. Such a fragrant drink is sometimes contraindicated even for children at school age. As doctors advise, it is necessary to refrain from preparing it in the following situations:

• with obesity;
• in case of impaired renal function.

This drink is contraindicated for hyperactive children.

If, after consuming cocoa, a rash or itching appears on the child's skin, then it is recommended to immediately consult a pediatrician who will tell you whether to use the treat in the future.

Constipation in a child associated with the inclusion of cocoa in the diet is not excluded, therefore, when introducing a new food product, it is advisable to monitor the baby's stool. Occasionally, you may encounter headaches caused by consuming a chocolate drink.

If parents have certain doubts about the age at which children can cocoa, then it is necessary to consult a doctor. Taking into account the peculiarities of the child's development, the specialist will give all the necessary recommendations.

Best time for cocoa

According to experts, it is advisable to give cocoa to a child in the morning. As you know, such a fragrant drink contains a large percentage of caffeine, which gives a boost of vigor for the whole day. Therefore, in order not to disturb the child's sleep, drinking cocoa before bedtime is highly discouraged.

Cocoa is a very high-calorie product that is cooked in whole milk with added sugar. So, its excessive use can lead to fatness. However, if the child is active, then the drink clearly will not harm him.

It should be noted that the composition of cocoa contains phenylephylamine, which promotes the production of endorphin - the hormone of joy. As a result, one cup of a tasty and aromatic drink will noticeably cheer you up.

Recipe for making a delicious drink

To prepare cocoa for a child, you must use an exclusively natural product. Real cocoa powder should be free of additives, rich brown tint and light chocolate flavor. Be sure to pay attention to its fat content, which should not exceed 15%.

You should not think about the age at which children can be given cocoa with milk, as it is a valuable product enriched with vitamins and useful microelements. Although some children do not digest lactose well, so sometimes young mothers cook cocoa in water.

The recipe for making cocoa for children will not cause any special problems. Use the following set of foods per serving of chocolate treat:

• milk - 150 g;
• cocoa powder - 1 teaspoon;
• sugar is added to taste or not added at all.

It is advisable to mix the sugar with the cocoa powder in advance to avoid the formation of lumps. Heat milk in a metal ladle and bring it to a boil. Then pour a mixture of cocoa and sugar into it, stirring everything thoroughly. The drink should be boiled for 5 minutes, then be sure to let it brew for 10 minutes.

Classic recipe

Cocoa in a child's diet is an excellent option to diversify the menu. Therefore, having found out at what age children can use cocoa "Nesquik" or any other, and having found out the absence of contraindications to this, include it in the baby's diet.

To prepare a classic drink, you must observe the proportions: 3 tablespoons of cocoa powder per 1 liter of water and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. In addition, the proportions can be changed according to the individual preferences of the child.

Finally

According to Komarovsky, at what age children can get cocoa, it is impossible to say unequivocally. Of course, despite a number of contraindications, the drink is useful and in certain quantities will not harm the child. If you do not abuse it, then your baby will enjoy a fragrant and very tasty delicacy without risk to health.

The children's favorite drink has a pleasant chocolate taste and is of great benefit to the body. So that the use of delicacies does not harm the child, it is necessary to observe daily dosages and the rules for introducing into the diet. Cocoa for children should be of high quality, you should not buy a product of a dubious brand.

The benefits of cocoa for the body of children are due to the high content of bioactive compounds and nutrients. The product includes:

• retinol;
• tocopherol;
• b vitamins;
• mineral elements - calcium, iron, zinc, phosphorus, potassium;
• proteins;
• flavonoids;
• tannins;
• cellulose;
• polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Cocoa is a rich supplier of antioxidants to the body. Moreover, these compounds remain in the drink after thermal exposure. They destroy free radicals, thereby reducing the likelihood of the spread of malignant cells.

• stimulating the formation of endorphin - a hormone that improves the emotional state;
• satisfying hunger;
• getting rid of dry cough with a cold;
• replacement of milk, from the use of which the child refuses;
• improving brain performance, getting rid of the consequences of stress and overwork during study;
• restoration of muscle tissue after physical training, sports activities.

The harm of cocoa to the child

Cocoa can bring both benefits and harm to the child's body:

1. If there is a tendency to allergies, then the drink can cause an allergic reaction, accompanied by itchy skin rashes, swelling of the face. In this situation, you urgently need to consult a pediatrician.
2. The product contains alkaloids, caffeine and theobromine. When consumed in excessive quantities, they have an exciting effect on the nervous system.
3. If the parent gives the child a treat for the night, he will not be able to sleep. This is due to the stimulating effects of caffeine and phenylethylamine. Therefore, it is better to give cocoa to children in the morning to fill the body with energy and provide a positive attitude.
4. It has a fairly high calorie content, so it is not given before eating. Otherwise, the baby may refuse main dishes.
5. With frequent use, the drink can become a migraine provocateur.
6. Also, the frequent inclusion of chocolate delicacies in the menu often causes constipation.

Who is cocoa suitable for

From what age you can give a sweet drink depends on the predisposition of the child's body to allergies. If there is no tendency to allergic reactions, then it is allowed to give cocoa to a child at 2 years old. But pediatricians indicate a different figure, from what age you can safely give your child cocoa - from 3 years old. At this age, the children's digestive tract is already able to digest a plant product with fiber and a high concentration of nutrients.

For a one-year-old baby, the drink will harm, it can provoke a strong allergic reaction. Moreover, with a decrease in childhood, the likelihood of a negative reaction increases.

The product is a source of theobromine, which has an exciting effect on nerve cells. If at an older age, the effect of a substance is manifested by short-lived overexcitation and hyperactivity, then a one-year-old baby, whose nervous system processes have not yet been established, can get a serious disorder.

If you give a drink to a baby at 1 year old, then with a high probability, his digestive tract will be disrupted. There will be constipation, which is difficult for an infant in one year old. Cocoa is not an irreplaceable product, it does not contain nutrients that the baby would not receive from other food sources.

Speaking at what age it is safe to give cocoa, pediatricians pay attention to the daily and weekly ration of the drink:

1. Children 3-5 years old eat a breakfast treat of 50 ml a day no more than 2 times a week.
2. It is impossible for babies at the age of 6-10 to consume more than 100 ml per day more than 4 times a week.
3. The daily portion for babies after 10 years is 200 ml. Moreover, cocoa can be drunk daily.

Drinking the drink for the first time should be extremely careful. On this day, the child should not eat any other new foods, as well as foods that previously caused allergies. It is advisable to give the child a new drink in the morning, and then the parent will be able to control how the child's body reacts to an unusual treat during the day.

For the first sample, you should offer a small portion of the drink - 2 teaspoons. If there is no negative reaction, then in the following days you can drink cocoa as much as pediatricians allow in accordance with age.

If an allergic rash appears, the face is swollen, then you will have to wait with the inclusion of a treat in the diet. At what age you can give cocoa to a child prone to allergies, the pediatrician will say, but usually the sample is postponed to 5-6 years.

When a child is not allowed to drink it

Parents should take into account, including cocoa in the menu, not only from what age the drink is not harmful, but also under what pathologies it is impossible to treat a child with a chocolate treat:

1. Baby cocoa is made with milk and sugar, which increases the calorie content. Therefore, it is not included in the menu if the baby is overweight.
2. Due to the purine content, the drink is not consumed by children with kidney pathologies.
3. There is little caffeine in cocoa when compared to coffee. But the concentration of the substance is sufficient for the children's nervous system to come into an excited state. Therefore, a chocolate delicacy is contraindicated for hyperactivity and choleric temperament. Pediatricians also question whether cocoa is worth using if you are prone to depression.
4. Cocoa beans are rich in fiber, the drink is prepared with sugar. Therefore, they are treated with caution to children prone to constipation.
5. Allergy tendencies are not the case when you can include a chocolate treat on the menu.

The drink will not be useful if it is made from low-quality powder. To choose a good product, follow the tips below:

1. The drink will taste better if it is made from cocoa powder with a fat content of 15% or more.
2. To find out which cocoa powder is of high quality, you need to look at the packaging, who is the manufacturer. The best suppliers are Peru, Colombia, Indonesia, Ecuador. Don't buy a Chinese product.
3. The powder should smell like chocolate, have a deep brown color without whitish inclusions. It should be crumbly, without lumps.

• a pleasant smell is created by fragrances;
• the solubility of the product is due to a special manufacturing method, during which the useful composition of the cocoa beans is destroyed;
• the volume of cocoa powder in the product is only 16%;
• the composition contains vitamins and mineral elements, but they are synthetic;
• although the manufacturer does not indicate, the drink is made using GMOs.

Therefore, it is best to brew the chocolate drink yourself. The recipe for cocoa with milk is simple, the cooking time takes 20 minutes.

• 1.5 teaspoon cocoa powder;
• a glass of low-fat milk;
• 1.5 teaspoons of sugar.

If the milk is fat, it is advisable to dilute it with water in a 1: 1 ratio.

Cocoa is prepared for a child according to the classic recipe as follows:

1. Mix cocoa powder and sugar. Add a couple of tablespoons of milk, stir until smooth and the lumps disappear.
2. Milk is poured into cooking utensils. Put on the stove, wait for the boil.
3. Gently, stirring continuously, pour the chocolate-milk liquid into the milk.
4. Turn off the heat about 20 seconds after boiling.

If the baby does not like cocoa with milk foam on the surface, then within the indicated 20 seconds it is necessary to whip the liquid with a whisk.

If the baby is sick, he has a dry cough, then a hot drink with cocoa butter can help. The main thing that this delicacy is useful for is the theobromine content. The substance promotes coughing, stimulates the release of phlegm. Also in the composition of cocoa butter there is ascorbic acid, which strengthens the immune system, helping to cope with colds faster.

For cooking take:

• a tablespoon of milk;
• a teaspoon of cocoa butter.

The butter is immersed in milk. The dishes are placed in a steam bath, kept until the oil dissolves. The sick child should drink 6 cups of hot medicine a day until the dry cough disappears.

For schoolchildren, a chocolate drink enriched with vitamin C is useful. It supports the immune system and prevents seasonal colds. For preparation, take 2 tablespoons of powdered cocoa, 3 tablespoons of rosehip syrup. Put everything in a blender, pour in a glass of milk, beat.

Chocolate drink is good for the child's body, it is a rich source of vitamins and nutrients. So that a delicacy does not bring harm instead of good, you need to take into account how to prepare it correctly, at what age you can give it to children, what is the daily portion.

For many adults, cocoa is associated with childhood, mother's care and warmth. And it is not surprising that a mother wants to treat her growing child with such a delicious drink. In order for the baby to receive only pleasant emotions and benefits from him, you should know from how many months it is allowed to try such a drink, what is the benefit and harm, and also how to cook it for the child.

What is cocoa

The drink called "cocoa" is made from the fruit of the evergreen tree of the same name.It was first brewed by the ancient Aztecs, calling it "bitter water". When the fruits hit Europe, the drink from them was brewed only for royalty. Only in the 18th century ordinary people began to drink it. Now the beans for the production of cocoa powder are grown mainly in Africa, and the drink is spread throughout the world.

What is useful

• The child will receivevaluable proteins, fiber, phosphorus, zinc, calcium, vitamin B9, iron and other substances.
• Stimulates the synthesis of endorphins, thanks to which cocoa improves mood.
• It is rich in polyunsaturated fats, which are important for the formation of cell membranes. These fatty acids reduce the level of bad cholesterol.
• It attracts with its pleasant chocolate taste and perfectly satisfies hunger. It is useful to give it to thin children.
• Theobromine in the composition is able to slightly inhibit the cough reflex,therefore, the drink is recommended for dry coughs that torment the child.
• If the baby refuses milk, then cocoa will help to get out of this situation without conflicts, after all, a recipe for milk is usually used for its preparation.
• The biologically active compounds that it contains have a positive effect on mental activity. Drinking cocoa in the morning will improve the student's performance and relieve stress from exertion during lessons.
• It has the ability to accelerate the recovery processes in the muscles after exercise, therefore, this drink is recommended for children attending sports clubs.

Harm and contraindications

• Allergies may occurtherefore, with 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.
• Serves as a source of caffeine and theobromine, whose properties are similar. Excessive amounts of these compounds increase the activity of the child and excite the nervous system. For this reason, cocoa should be discarded with hyperactivity, as well as babies with a choleric temperament.
• Drinking cocoa at night can prevent your child from falling asleep.
• The preparation of the drink involves the addition of milk and sugar, so the cocoa turns out to be quite high in calories. This leads to the limitation of its use in overweight children.
• If you give it to a child before meals, the baby may refuse food,as the drink is quite satisfying.
• It is contraindicated in children with impaired kidney function and problems with the exchange of purines.
• Too frequent use can provoke constipation.
• The drink may cause the appearance migraine.

From how old to give to children

Doctors do not advise giving cocoa to a one-year-old child, but recommend trying such a drink for the first time only from 2 years old. Unwanted use at 1 year is associated with an increased risk of allergies. In addition, excess sugar and increased activity for such a small child is also not necessary. That is why the first cup should be offered to a two-year-old toddler or an older child.

The first serving should be a small amount of the drink - just a few spoons.So the mother will be able to understand whether the child tolerates cocoa well or whether the acquaintance should be postponed until the age of 3-5 years. If after the morning portion of the drink in the evening the child does not have a rash on the skin and other signs of allergies, the next time the volume of the product can be doubled. The portion is increased gradually and very carefully up to the age norm.

How much can a child drink

At the age of 2 to 5 years, the optimal portion of cocoa per day is considered 50 ml, and the frequency of drinking the drink should not exceed 4 times a week. It is best to serve cocoa to children for breakfast. Let such a sweet drink at preschool age be a rare delicacy, and from the age of 6 you can drink it more often (even every day). A student under 10 years old can drink 100 ml at a time, and at an older age, the portion can be increased to 150-250 ml.

Komarovsky's opinion

Komarovsky calls cocoa a useful drink for a child, but at the same time emphasizes the attention of parents that it acts as a source of energy. According to the popular doctor, there will be no harm from one cup of cocoa per day, but the mother should remember that cocoa will increase the activity of the baby, so you should not drink this drink at night.

A short commentary by the doctor in the following video.

How to choose

How to cook

For a delicious drink, add 1.5 teaspoons of cocoa powder to a saucepan. Add the same amount of sugar and stir well to avoid lumps. Pour in 100 ml of hot water and, heating over medium heat with constant stirring, wait until it boils, then pour in 150 ml of milk (it must be preheated).

Reduce heat and continue to heat the beverage by removing it from the stove before the cocoa boils. Take a whisk and whisk the drink 15 seconds until frothy. This will mix the ingredients more thoroughly and prevent the formation of a film (many children refuse such a drink because of it).

The proportion of sugar and cocoa powder can be adjusted to suit your child's preferences. Someone tastes a sweeter drink, and someone loves a more chocolate one. If the cocoa will be served with a cookie or other sweet product, the amount of sugar in the recipe should be reduced. You can diversify the recipe by adding vanilla, cinnamon, condensed milk, baked milk or cream during cooking.

A preschool child can drink it both warm and chilled. Some babies love to feast on them through a cocktail straw.

For older children, you can make a dessert by pouring a ball of ice cream with cold cocoa and garnishing it with whipped cream and chocolate chips.

During the cold season, schoolchildren can be offered a cocktail rich in vitamin C, for the preparation of which you need to combine with a blender 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder, a glass of milk and 3 tablespoons of rosehip syrup. You can also add any berries or fruits to such a drink to taste.

Cocoa or hot chocolate

When a child tasted cocoa and fell in love with this drink, many mothers have an idea to make hot chocolate from natural chocolate and cream for the baby, but this delicacy is less preferable for the children's menu, since the drink turns out to be very fatty, thick and high-calorie. It should be included in the children's menu no earlier than 10 years.

If we are talking about instant hot chocolate, which is bought in a supermarket, children do not need to get to know such a drink at all. It is good if it happens as late as possible, because the composition of such a product includes many stabilizers, flavors, emulsifiers and other additives. These substances are not useful even for adults, so children do not need such "hot chocolate" any more.

About when you can give your child cocoa, and why it is considered safer than coffee or tea, see the program of Dr. Komarovsky.

You will learn even more about the benefits by watching the program "Living Healthy".

Find out if your child's weight is normal using the following calculator.

Height and weight calculator

A cup of delicious cocoa can cheer up every child. However, you can start preparing a flavored drink for children from a certain age. This article will help you figure out when to start giving your baby cocoa.

Beneficial features

Cocoa is one of the favorite drinks for babies all over the world. Moreover, many adults love to feast on this fragrant warming dessert. Cocoa is prepared quickly and easily, so even a schoolboy can successfully cope with the preparation. Many modern pediatricians have recognized cocoa as a very healthy drink for children. The vitamins included in the product allow the child to remain active and energetic for a long time. Also, these substances have a beneficial effect on the nervous system. However, when consuming cocoa, it should be remembered that in large quantities it can lead to overstimulation of the baby.

Scientists have found that cocoa contains components that have a beneficial effect on the work of all cells in the body - antioxidants. They are believed to help reduce the negative effects of oxidative stress in cells. This effect contributes to the fact that the likelihood of developing various diseases is significantly reduced.

Interestingly, the chocolate drink contains natural theobromine. This component is able to affect the cough reflex and help reduce unproductive ("dry") cough. Typically, this property of theobromine is used by pharmaceutical companies in the production of drugs.

Cocoa is a fairly high-calorie and nutritious product. It contains relatively high amounts of dietary nutrients - proteins, fats and carbohydrates. Children's doctors recommend that parents remember this feature of the chemical composition of the product. Some kids love to eat cocoa so much that they ask their beloved parents to cook it for them several times a day. Dads and mothers in this should not indulge the baby. Although cocoa is a rather healthy drink, when consumed in large quantities, it can contribute to the development of undesirable manifestations. In particular, the baby will be easier to get aroused. That is why children's doctors do not recommend giving this fragrant drink to babies suffering from hyperexcitability.

So that the baby can safely fall asleep, pediatricians advise not to give him cocoa in the evening or closer to bedtime. The components included in this drink can lead to the fact that the baby simply cannot fall asleep or that his sleep becomes shallow. Cocoa is a nutritious drink that is great for children who are underweight. The child drinks cocoa, as a rule, with great pleasure, as he likes the chocolate taste of this drink. Regular consumption of hot chocolate will help a child who is underweight to gain the necessary pounds faster.

To make the process of weight normalization faster, it is better to cook cocoa for a baby in milk. It is also allowed to use recipes that include cream.

Caring parents of kids attending sports clubs often face the problem of drawing up an adequate rational menu for their kids. After intense physical activity, the child needs to recuperate quickly and effectively. Cocoa is a beverage that provides the body with the energy it needs and also promotes better muscle recovery after exercise. That is why this drink is recommended to be included in the diet of young athletes.

Children's nutritionists recommend drinking cocoa for schoolchildren. Modern kids not only attend school, but also study in several circles and sections. At the same time, the load for the child's body is enormous. To cope with it, the baby must receive a sufficient amount of products that give him energy and a boost of vigor for the whole day. One of these products is cocoa.

Doctors note that drinking a cup of a fragrant chocolate drink in the morning charges the child with positive energy, which he needs to be successful throughout the day. Cocoa also contains components that increase stress resistance and performance.

Potential harm

Unfortunately, cocoa cannot always only benefit the body. In some situations, the use of this drink can lead to the appearance of unwanted manifestations. So, babies who have an increased sensitivity to cocoa and even intolerance to this product, after drinking a chocolate drink, may experience severe abdominal pain and even upset stool. In an extremely difficult case, the child may even develop a disorder of consciousness.

With the appearance of such dangerous symptoms, the child's parents should in no case hesitate to seek medical help.

Another contraindication for consuming cocoa is the presence of allergies in a child. Cocoa cannot be classified as a hypoallergenic food. Unfortunately, the incidence of allergic reactions after consuming this chocolate drink remains quite high. Allergists do not advise a kid who suffers from allergies to include cocoa in the diet. Allergy symptoms after consuming cocoa usually develop within a few hours. However, in some cases, they can develop the next day after consuming a chocolate drink.

Parents may suspect a cocoa allergy when the following symptoms appear:

• the appearance of reddish, usually itchy elements on the skin;
• the appearance of swelling of the face or neck;
• changes in the baby's behavior, he becomes more moody and may refuse to perform his usual activities.

In case of the appearance of allergic manifestations of the child, it is imperative to show the child's doctor. To cope with the violations that have arisen, doctors usually prescribe antihistamines. If a child has clinical signs after drinking cocoa, then the use of this chocolate drink in the future should be abandoned and be sure to consult with an allergist.

Subsequently, parents should carefully monitor that cocoa is not present in food, as its presence can provoke the appearance of an allergic rash or more severe clinical manifestations in the baby.

Cocoa, especially brewed with milk or cream, is a very nutritious and high-calorie drink. That is why children's nutritionists do not recommend including it in the diet of babies who have extra pounds or are obese. Many mothers are familiar with the situation when, after drinking a cup of cocoa before dinner, the child flatly refuses to eat. This behavior of the baby is quite simple to explain. Cocoa contains a lot of lipids and "fast" carbohydrates - substances that quickly suppress hunger. In order not to provoke the development of an eating disorder in the crumbs, experts in healthy eating recommend giving him cocoa after the child has eaten the main dishes.

Drinking cocoa can provoke a violation of purine metabolism. The likelihood of developing this pathology is slightly higher in babies suffering from chronic kidney disease. In this case, drinking cocoa is dangerous because it contributes to the excessive accumulation of purines in the body. This situation is also dangerous with the development of gout or even the formation of urolithiasis.

Features of the composition

People who like to eat cocoa have probably noticed that after consuming it, their mood improves quite quickly. This effect of the drink on the body is largely due to its chemical composition. Cocoa contains the following components that have a positive effect on mood:

• pyridoxine;
• cyanocobalamin;
• magnesium.

The drink also contains B vitamins, sodium, nicotinic and ascorbic acid, tocopherol, zinc, fluorine, calcium, iron, phosphorus and many other components useful for the human body. The composition of the drink may vary. Many modern manufacturers that produce chocolate drinks for babies add additional vitamin and mineral supplements to them. Such additives make cocoa not only very tasty, but also useful for the baby. One of the more popular drinks is Nesquik. Babies usually like not only the chocolate taste of this drink, but also the bright packaging.

How old can you use?

Children's doctors, including Evgeny Komarovsky, do not recommend introducing this chocolate drink into the baby's diet too early. This is usually allowed after three years. At an earlier age, drinking cocoa can provoke various unpleasant manifestations in a child. Drinks fortified with vitamins and minerals, such as Nesquik, are more suitable for schoolchildren.

This drink has been known since ancient times: the Aztecs made the discovery that powdered cocoa beans have a pleasant taste and healing effect, so they were given to warriors for endurance and wound healing. Subsequently, cocoa became known in Europe, and then throughout the world. Now it is one of the most common and favorite products, because cocoa for children is allowed already from the age of 3.

Cocoa butter and cocoa powder are processed products of cocoa beans. The beans are extracted from the pulp of the fruit of the chocolate tree, which reaches a height of over 10 meters. Cocoa beans contain many useful substances, varied in composition and effect on the human body.

These are trace elements and minerals: dietary fiber, vegetable protein, organic acids and oils, sugar, iron, phosphorus, zinc, potassium, calcium, magnesium and a vitamin complex of groups A, E, B, PP.

A drink made from cocoa powder is very nutritious, and the fat and carbohydrate content is lower than that of chocolate. Bioflavonoids have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system - they reduce the risk of thrombosis, strengthen the walls of blood vessels, theobromine substance increases efficiency.

Cocoa promotes the production of serotonin, a substance responsible for the production of the hormone of pleasure, so if you are stressed or in a bad mood, it is helpful to eat a few slices of chocolate or drink a cup of delicious chocolate drink.

Products made from cocoa beans have beneficial properties:

1. They have an antioxidant effect. Laboratory studies have shown that the substances contained in them are capable of removing free radicals and have an anti-inflammatory effect.
2. They help to lower blood pressure and generally improve blood circulation in the brain, which has a positive effect on human intellectual abilities.
3. They stimulate metabolic processes in the body, lower the level of harmful cholesterol.
4. Thanks to their nutritional value, they help to restore strength after intense physical exertion and illness, relieve muscle spasms.
5. They have a positive effect on the elasticity of blood vessels, prevent the formation of atherosclerotic plaques.
6. Saponified cocoa butter is used in a medicinal product for the treatment of joints (prevents the destruction of the cartilage layer).
7. In cosmetology, they are used as rejuvenating procedures (chocolate wraps), added to creams, lotions, masks, etc.
8. In cooking, they are used by confectioners for making biscuits, creams, sweets.
9. Due to its high zinc content, it has a beneficial effect on men's health.

Despite all the benefits, a controversial issue arises when this product is included in. Some of them claim that when combined with cocoa milk, it increases lactation. But you should not abuse such a drink, because it is capable of having an exciting effect on the nervous system of the mother and baby.

At what age can children be given

Many parents are interested in - at what age can cocoa be given to children and in what quantity? Children's doctors and nutritionists consider the optimal age to consume this drink - three years, not a year or two.

Why is cocoa for children under 3 years old not allowed?

Excessive sugar, theobromine, which has a tonic effect, and other substances can cause an allergic reaction and nervous irritability. But if in the morning a one-year-old child eats badly or refuses to eat at all, then it is allowed to give a small cup for breakfast, thanks to its nutritional value, cocoa will give energy and vigor to the baby.

Attention! You should start with small portions - 1-2 cups of 100-150 ml per week, preferably in the morning. The volume of the drink should be increased starting from the age of 6, but no more than 300-400 ml per week. For older children from 10 years old and more, the drink can be consumed daily in a cup of 200-250 ml.

Who shouldn't eat cocoa?

Despite the undeniable usefulness of the drink, the use of cocoa is limited or contraindicated for the following category of children:

1. Babies are strictly prohibited from feeding cocoa as their digestive system is immature and cannot process it.
2. Children prone to allergic reactions associated with food intolerance are not recommended to drink cocoa at an early age, optimally after 5-6 years, and in some cases it is completely banned.
3. Babies with metabolic diseases (gout), renal failure - the drink is categorically contraindicated.
4. The volume and frequency of drinking should be limited to overweight children with attention deficit disorder.

When is it better to drink cocoa

The most suitable time for drinking cocoa is in the morning. When else can you give your child cocoa? You can cook it for an afternoon snack or at any time not too late when you want to be in a good mood. The substances contained in cocoa contribute to the production of hormones of joy.

The drink can be used to restore strength after illness and intense physical activity (included in the diet of athletes). The recipe is as follows: egg yolks are mixed with sugar, warm cocoa is added, heated, but not brought to a boil and shaken well.

Cocoa cooking secrets

To make the drink tasty, healthy and nutritious, you need to know some tricks when preparing:

1. Powder often sinks to the bottom of a ladle or saucepan, so stir before pouring into a cup to get an even drink.
2. To prevent the formation of "foam" after cooling, the drink must be stirred during the preparation process, preventing the formation of a film.
3. Before serving cocoa, you can decorate it beautifully - sprinkle or add ice cream pieces.

Cocoa brewed with milk is tastier and therefore the most popular drink.

For cooking you will need (for 1 serving):

• powder (no additives) - 1 tbsp. l .;
• milk or cream - 1 glass;
• granulated sugar - 2-3 tsp.

Prepare as follows:

• milk is brought to a boil;
• in a container, thoroughly mix cocoa powder and sugar until smooth;
• add 2-3 tbsp to the mixture. l. heated milk, stir;
• add the remaining milk;
• then boil over low heat and, after complete dissolution of sugar, remove from heat and cool.

You can add vanillin, cinnamon, and other ingredients to your preference to cooked cocoa. So that it is not too high in calories, you can serve it with dry biscuits (biscuits or crackers).

Instant cocoa

In stores you can buy ready-made mixes of various brands, many of which are positioned as children's. The most popular among kids is Nesquik. The recipe for making instant drink is simple:

1. Pour 1-2 tablespoons of powder into a cup.
2. Add hot water or milk and sugar (if it is not in the instant mixture).
3. Stir well and serve.

Cocoa or hot chocolate - which is healthier?

There is another delicious drink - hot chocolate. It can be soluble, but it contains additives - emulsifiers, stabilizers, which significantly reduces the benefits. Natural boiled chocolate drink is made from chocolate and cream, the fat content of such a drink is 40% or more, which significantly exceeds the calorie content of the cocoa drink. Therefore, it is better to refrain from frequent consumption of hot chocolate.

Both cocoa and hot chocolate are nutritious and delicious drinks with many health benefits. But you need to remember about the limitations and a sense of proportion when using cocoa, including knowing how old you can give it to a child.