I had someone recently ask how to get her kindergartner “off” soda.  I said, “Don’t buy it.”  I thought it was simple enough; maybe too simple.  But for young children especially those who don’t have any older siblings, you should be the one making those buying/serving decisions.  My kids have had soda, but I don’t buy it for them— it’s only when we’re at relatives or friends’ kids’ birthdays.  (Though I have bought Virgil’s Rootbeer for rare special occasions)

So instead of soda, give alternatives like:

• naturally flavored seltzer or mineral water
• all-natural juice (no sugar or hfcs added) with enough seltzer for fizz
• seltzer/mineral water with slice of lime, lemon or orange
• seltzer/mineral water with lemon or orange zest and teaspoon of honey
• seltzer/mineral water with crushed raspberries (strained) and 1/2 tsp sugar
• sparkling apple cider or other sparkling juices (Trader Joe’s has good selection)

Read more from this blog chemicalfreeskinny:

GENERAL INTEREST:

How Soda Impacts Your Health*

You’ve probably heard that soft drinks aren’t the best for you, but CLICK for a larger version to get the facts.
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*The CRS Institute/ChemicalFreeSkinny reports: sodium benzoate is also associated with fluid retention/weight gain/difficulty losing weight/headaches, and several other adverse symptoms. Message us for details on this preservative. (http://chemicalfreeskinny.tumblr.com/)