Children naturally enjoy sweets, but consuming excessive refined sugar can lead to obesity, dental issues, and energy dips. Children 2 years and older should consume less than 25 g of added sugar (about 6 teaspoons) daily to protect their overall health.

The following healthier refined sugar alternatives can satisfy children's sweet cravings.

Honey

Honey is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, supporting the immune and digestive systems. Its antibacterial properties also help soothe sore throats and enhance overall health. However, parents should not give honey to children under one year old due to the risk of botulinum poisoning. For older children, parents can drizzle honey on porridge, add it to toast, mix it into milk, or use it in baking.

Raw cane sugar

Raw cane sugar is a nutrient-rich sweetener containing iron, magnesium, and potassium. It aids digestion, boosts immunity, and helps prevent anemia in growing children. Unlike refined sugar, raw cane sugar undergoes minimal processing, retaining essential minerals. Parents can add raw cane sugar to warm milk, homemade sweets, or bread to give foods a rich flavor and provide sustained energy for children throughout the day.

Coconut sugar

Coconut sugar, extracted from coconut flower sap, is rich in minerals such as zinc, iron, and potassium. This sugar has a lower glycemic index than regular sugar, leading to slower energy release and limiting sudden blood sugar spikes. It can be used in cookies, cakes, or added to cereals, offering a natural and delicious option for children.

Dates

Dates are rich in fiber, calcium, and antioxidants, making them a healthy natural sweetener for children. Dates aid digestion, strengthen bones, and provide sustained energy. Parents can blend dates into smoothies, stuff them with nuts, or use date powder as an ingredient in baking. Unlike refined sugar, dates offer sweetness, high nutritional value, and a healthy addition to a child's diet.

Le Nguyen (According to WebMD, Times of India)