The truth behind ‘health drinks’ parents feed their kids

Calling malted beverages 'protein drinks' or 'health drinks' will not make it healthy!

By: Sneha Sadhwani | | Updated: May 23, 2018 1:54 pm

Malt beverages, health drinks and supplements are gaining tremendous popularity day by day. These malt drinks are positioned as ‘nutritious drinks’ in India. They are added to milk to enhance the taste and to encourage the growing children to drink milk. Some of the malt-based drinks and supplements are commonly found in most of the houses. But the main question is- are these drinks really healthy? Also, try these 5 healthy recipes your child will love!

Let’s throw some light at the dangers of malt drinks and supplements-

These drinks are laden with a lot of sugar and most of them even contain chocolate. Such a composition may have various hidden dangers to our body.
One such danger is poor oral health. When high level of sugar is consumed, growth of oral bacteria takes place which further leads to tooth decay and cavities.
Though these health drinks provide an immediate bout of energy due to its high sugar content, they may later make you feel lethargic and lazy. You can get energy from other natural food sources too, therefore such a malt drink or supplement may not be required.
In addition to this, malt drinks and supplements even contain preservatives that are added to improve their overall shelf-life. Artificial colors are also added which can have a negative impact on health.
Clinical studies have shown that consumption of foods which contain preservatives and artificial color may have a harmful effect on children’s behavior. It also affects memory and level of concentration and alertness. Furthermore, such a composition can even make a person hyperactive.
Calories coming from sugar and simple starches are in the form of ’empty calories’. Such calories provide little or no nutrients. Therefore, such drinks may not be considered as a healthy and nutritious choice for people with diabetes, high triglyceride levels, obesity and metabolic syndrome.
In addition to this, healthy individuals too must limit the intake of malt drinks and supplements in order to prevent the onset of lifestyle-related diseases.

Here are some ways to sweeten your milk without malt drinks and supplements-

Add fruits or natural fruit pulps to milk.
Blend milk with fruit to make your own milkshake.
Add few strands of kesar to milk.
Replace malt drinks with cinnamon. Adding a dash of cinnamon to milk can add an amazing flavor to your cup of milk.
You can also try adding dry fruits such as dates, dried figs and raisins to your milk.

Bottomline: Indians already have a high intake of carbohydrates (including sugar). Therefore, an extra intake of sugar coming from malt drinks and supplements is unwanted and not needed. Sugar is a dangerous pleasure drug and it is very important to replace refined sugar with naturally sweet foods such as fruits and dry fruits. These malt drinks can be enjoyed rarely but do not make it a daily habit or a part of your regular diet. Here’s how to make your child eat healthy without any fuss.

Image source: Shutterstock (Image for representational purpose only)

Published: May 16, 2016 6:40 pm | Updated:May 23, 2018 1:54 pm

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