Q: Is apple juice the best drink for toddlers?

A: Apple juice is a nutritious drink that can supply some of the health-promoting phytochemicals found in apples. But there’s no reason to use it as the main beverage, the way many parents do.

The idea that apple juice is somehow easier than citrus juice on children’s stomachs is quite untrue. The stomach’s digestive juices are far more acidic than any food or drink. Regardless of what juice is used, it is better not to dole out multiple glasses of juice between meals which can leave a toddler too full to get adequate nutrition at meals. Some snack-time juice is fine, but getting children in the habit of drinking water to satisfy thirst between meals will bring them many short- and long-term benefits. Also do not leave a baby or toddler sucking a bottle with juice in it as over the long term this can cause tooth damage.

The benefits of apple cider vinegar have been touted by the ancient Egyptians and claims of its benefits go back to Hippocrates. It has traditionally been used to treat many ailments including cancer, joint pains, arthritis, high cholesterol, osteoporosis, high blood pressure and many more.

Cider vinegar is made by the fermentation of apples and it is this fermented fruit acid which contains a host of beneficial vitamins and minerals including potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron and other trace minerals, as well as pectin. It is thought that pectin, which is a fibre, can attach itself to cholesterol globules and remove excess from the body. It is also thought to help with the thinning and circulation of blood and in reducing high blood pressure.

Cider vinegar is known traditionally as a powerful detoxifying food as it breaks down mucus and phlegm in the body. It has also been used as a remedy for arthritis as it is supposed to be able to break down the acid crystals which can harden in the joints causing pain.

Research has shown that when vinegar is added to food, calcium absorption from that food is increased, so good for your bone health and prevention of osteoporosis.

Cider vinegar is also helpful in controlling negative bacteria. Adding a few drops of tea tree essential oil to your bath, together with 3 cups of pure apple cider vinegar, can be very helpful when you have a vaginal infection.

This is an easy to make sauce and yet it can change a very simple meal. You can use it poured over plain brown rice or mixed in at the end of a tofu and vegetable stir-fry or just used to brighten up some leftover vegetables.

Ingredients: 

• 2 tablespoons arrowroot or kuzu
• 2 tablespoons water
• 8 fl ozs or 1 cup unsweetened organic apple juice
• 3 fl ozs or one third cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 fl ozs or one quarter cup of organic maple syrup or honey
• 1 tablespoon organic tamari or organic soya sauce

Directions:

Put the arrowroot and water together in a small bowl and mix to a smooth paste. Place the other ingredients in a small saucepan and heat over a medium flame. Gradually add the arrowroot paste to the apple juice mix until you get the consistency of sauce that you prefer. Serve hot.