The Top Health Drinks for Child Growth in India: Pros, Cons, and Everything in Between

Good nutrition is essential for a child’s growth and development, and health drinks can be an excellent supplement to a balanced diet. However, with so many options available in the market, choosing the right health drink for your child’s growth and immunity can be a daunting task. In India, health drinks are particularly popular, and there are several brands that claim to provide essential nutrients for a child’s growth and development. From Horlicks to Nutriwish, each brand has its own unique set of benefits and drawbacks, and it’s important for parents to make an informed decision. 

In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the top health drinks for child growth in India, including their pros, cons, and everything in between. We hope that this guide will help you choose the best health drink for your child’s specific nutritional needs and preferences.

Is it safe to give Health Drinks to Children?

While health drinks can be a good supplement to a child’s diet, it’s important to be cautious about the amount and frequency of consumption. Some health drinks contain high levels of sugar and artificial flavors, which can be harmful to a child’s health if consumed excessively. It’s important to read the labels carefully and choose health drinks that are low in sugar and do not contain harmful additives.

Additionally, it’s important to remember that health drinks should not replace a balanced and nutritious diet. A child’s primary source of nutrition should come from whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Health drinks should only be used to supplement a child’s diet if they are not getting enough essential nutrients from their regular meals.

Finally, it’s always a good idea to consult with a pediatrician before introducing any new health drink or supplement to a child’s diet. They can provide guidance on the appropriate amount and frequency of consumption based on a child’s age, weight, and overall health.

Review of 11 Best Kids’ Health Drinks in India

Good nutrition is crucial for a child’s growth and development, and health drinks can be an excellent supplement to a balanced diet. However, with so many options available in the Indian market, choosing the best health drink for child growth in India can be overwhelming. So, let’s review the top 11 health drinks for kids in India, including their pros and cons, to help parents make an informed decision.

1. Horlicks Health and Nutrition Drink

Horlicks is one of the most popular health drinks in India and has been around for decades. It is enriched with nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and proteins that are essential for a child’s growth and development. The pros of Horlicks include its delicious taste, high nutritional value, and availability in different flavors. However, some cons of Horlicks are its high sugar content and the fact that it contains preservatives.

• Health Drink that has nutrients to support immunity.
• Clinically proven to improve 5 signs of growth
• Clinically proven to make kids Taller, Stronger & Sharper
• Scientifically proven to improve Power of Milk
• It helps in holistic development of Children
• Horlicks has Bio-Available Nutrients which get absorbed in the blood and are carried to all parts of the body.

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2. Bournvita Health Drink

Bournvita is another popular health drink in India known for its chocolaty taste. It is enriched with nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and iron that are essential for a child’s growth and development. Some of the pros of Bournvita include its delicious taste, high nutritional value, and availability in different flavors. However, some cons of Bournvita are its high sugar content and the fact that it contains artificial flavors.

• Bournvita contains a bundle of Nutrients that are known to support in the maintenance of strong bones (Vitamin D, Phosphorus), strong muscles.
• Bournvita is a scientifically designed formula, crafted by nutritionists with a bundle of nutrients.
• Vitamin D ki taakat- 50% OF DAILY VITAMIN D. Calcium, Vitamin D, Magnesium are known to maintain Bone and Muscle health.
• requirement for children (7-9 years).

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3. PediaSure Health and Nutrition Drink

PediaSure is a high-protein health drink that is specially formulated for children. It is enriched with nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and proteins that are essential for a child’s growth and development. Some of the pros of PediaSure include its high nutritional value, suitability for children with poor appetites, and availability in different flavors. However, some cons of PediaSure are its high price and the fact that it contains artificial flavors.

• Pediasure is a health drink that provides complete, balanced nutrition for children 2 years & above.
• The milk powder for kids made with   nutrients like Arginine and Vitamin K2, to support longer & stronger bones  during the special years of rapid growth.
• Formulated with nutrients like Protein, Calcium, Vitamin D, Iron & Iodine to support growth catch-up.
• Pediasure is scientifically developed with key immunoneutrients like Zinc, Selenium, Copper, Vitamin A, C & E to maintain immunity in children 2 years and above.

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4. Complan Nutri Gro

Complan Nutri Gro is a health drink that is specially formulated for children. It is enriched with nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and proteins that are essential for a child’s growth and development. Some of the pros of Complan Nutri Gro include its high nutritional value, suitability for children with poor appetites, and availability in different flavors. However, some cons of Complan Nutri Gro are its high sugar content and the fact that it contains artificial flavors.

• Complan is a nutrition & health drink for kids with clinically proven formula that supports concentration & memory & delivers 2X faster growth
• Contains 100% milk protein. Use it to make healthy protein drink for kids
• Contains 34 vital nutrients
• Nutrients like Iodine, Iron & Vitamin B12 helps in brain development & its functioning.
• Nutrients like Vitamin A, E & C supports immune function.

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5. Nestle Milo Active Go

Nestle Milo Active Go is a chocolate-flavored health drink that is enriched with nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and proteins. It is specially formulated for children and is designed to support their growth and development. Some of the pros of Nestle Milo Active Go include its delicious taste, high nutritional value, and suitability for active children. However, some cons of Nestle Milo Active Go are its high sugar content and the fact that it contains artificial flavors.

• Cocoa milk beverage for kids fortified with vitamins and minerals
• Cocoa milk beverage fortified with vitamins and minerals for growing kids
• milo is made with the goodness of milk and is fortified with vitamins and minerals to provide nourishing.

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6. Enfagrow A+

Enfagrow A+ is a high-protein health drink that is specially formulated for children. It is enriched with nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and proteins that are essential for a child’s growth and development. Some of the pros of Enfagrow A+ include its high nutritional value, suitability for children with poor appetites, and availability in different flavors. However, some cons of Enfagrow A+ are its high price and the fact that it contains artificial flavors.

• Enfagrow A+ is a nutritional milk powder with DHA for children aged 2 years and above.
• Enfagrow A+ health drink for kids has Calcium, Vitamin D, Phosphorus, and Magnesium to promote growth.
• Enfagrow A+ nutritional drink for children contains Vitamins A, B, C, E, Iron, Zinc, and Pre-Biotics which build 3 types of immunity
• Enfagrow A+ health drink for children provides nutrients that children may not get enough of in their diet.

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7. Early Foods Organic Ragi & Chocolate Drink Mix

Early Foods Organic Ragi & Chocolate Drink Mix is a popular health drink that is specially formulated for children. It is enriched with essential nutrients like proteins, vitamins, minerals, and fiber that are important for a child’s growth and development. This drink mix is made with organic ragi flour, organic cocoa powder, and organic jaggery powder, making it a healthy and nutritious choice for children. However, some cons of Early Foods Organic Ragi & Chocolate Drink Mix is its availability in limited flavors.

• No Preservatives, Artificial Flavours, Artificial Colours, Stabilizers etc. A 100% chemical free product, made especially for kids. Shelf life : 2 Months from opening the pack
• Both Ragi & Amaranth are excellent sources of calcium. Ragi is know to be 10x richer in calcium than wheat or rice.
• Ragi Chocolate Drink Mix can be an instant Drink Mix Powder for Kids Drink.
• Freshly made organic Ragi & Chocolate drink for kids!

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8. Protinex Grow

Protinex Grow is a high-protein health drink that is specially formulated for children. It is enriched with nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and proteins that are essential for a child’s growth and development. Some of the pros of Protinex Grow include its high nutritional value, suitability for children with poor appetites, and availability in different flavors. However, some cons of Protinex Grow are its high price and the fact that it contains preservatives.

• 100 percent vegetarian source of protein
• Nutrient requirements increase during adolescence to support rapid growth
• Vitamin D: To facilitate absorption of calcium in bones
• Iron: To support blood formation and improve physical performance of child.

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9. Boost Health Drink

Boost Health Drink is a chocolate-flavored health drink that is enriched with nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and proteins. It is specially formulated for children and is designed to support their growth and development. Some of the pros of Boost Health Drink include its delicious taste, high nutritional value, and suitability for active children. However, some cons of Boost Health Drink are its high sugar content and the fact that it contains artificial flavors.

• Nourishing beverage that helps build stamina
• Has nutrients which help in maintenance of optimal bone & muscle strength
• Enriched with Envita Nutrients (Iron, Vitamin A, C, Folic Acid, B12 and B6)
• Envita nutrients help transport oxygen more effectively in the body.; Country of Origin: India
• Flavor Name: Malt; Material Features: Vegetarian

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10. Gritzo SuperMilk Nutrition Drink

Gritzo SuperMilk Nutrition Drink is a high-protein health drink that is enriched with nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and proteins. It is specially formulated for children and is designed to support their growth and development. Some of the pros of Gritzo SuperMilk Nutrition Drink include its high nutritional value, natural ingredients, and suitability for children with dietary restrictions. However, some cons of Gritzo SuperMilk Nutrition Drink are its limited availability and higher cost compared to other health drinks.

• PROTEIN POWERHOUSE: Gritzo SuperMilk for 8-12y (Girls) provides 10 g protein per serving i.e. 34% more RDA protein than other protein drinks for kids.
• Gritzo SuperMilk for Girls provides 21 essential vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes.
• This health drink for kids is scientifically formulated to provide macro and micronutrients as per age, gender, and special needs.
• It also contains ingredients like amla, turmeric, cranberry, and 100% RDA iron to provide optimal nutrition to girls of 8-12 years

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11. Nutrela Kids Super Food Nutrition Drink

Nutrela Kids Super Food Nutrition Drink is a popular health drink that is specially formulated for children. It is enriched with essential nutrients like proteins, vitamins, minerals, and fiber that are important for a child’s growth and development. Nutrela Kids Super Food Nutrition Drink comes in various flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and butterscotch, making it a delicious and healthy treat for kids. However, it contains soy, which can be a concern for children with soy allergies.

• Scientifically formulated as per ICMR guidelines – with Milk proteins, biofermented vitamins with botanical extracts and essential amino acids for age group 4-13yrs.
• Balanced nutrition enriched with kids super food Dry fruits powder like walnut and dates, with high quality whey protein, FOS, cow milk calcum, rose hip, feeugreek, shankhpuspi and brahmi extrct.
• Recommended Dosage: For 3-7 Years, take 150 ml of full creamed milk and 1 heaped spoonful or 15 gram powder, mix well and consume immediately.
• 26gm Protien / 100gm, 100% Vegetaraian, GMO & Gluten free, No artifical colour, no added preservative and tranfat free.

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How To Choose The Right Kids’ Health Drinks?

1. Check the nutritional value: Look for health drinks that are rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins that are necessary for a child’s growth and development.
   
   
2. Avoid artificial flavors and preservatives: Choose health drinks that are free of harmful additives like artificial flavors and preservatives, which can be detrimental to a child’s health.
   
   
3. Read the label: Carefully read the label to understand the ingredients, nutritional value, and serving size.
   
   
4. Consider your child’s dietary restrictions: If your child has any dietary restrictions or allergies, look for health drinks that are suitable for their needs.
   
   
5. Check the sugar content: Avoid health drinks that contain high levels of sugar, as excessive sugar consumption can lead to health problems like obesity, tooth decay, and diabetes.
   
   
6. Consult a pediatrician: It’s always a good idea to consult with a pediatrician before introducing any new health drink or supplement to a child’s diet. They can provide guidance on the appropriate amount and frequency of consumption based on a child’s age, weight, and overall health.

FAQs on the Topic

1. Are health drinks safe for kids?
While health drinks can be a good supplement to a child’s diet, it’s important to be cautious about the amount and frequency of consumption. Some health drinks contain high levels of sugar and artificial flavors, which can be harmful to a child’s health if consumed excessively. It’s important to read the labels carefully and choose health drinks that are low in sugar and do not contain harmful additives.

2. Are health drinks necessary for a child’s growth and development?
Health drinks can be a good supplement to a child’s diet if they are not getting enough essential nutrients from their regular meals. However, it’s important to remember that health drinks should not replace a balanced and nutritious diet. A child’s primary source of nutrition should come from whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

3. Can health drinks cause obesity in children?
Excessive consumption of health drinks that are high in sugar can lead to obesity in children. It’s important to choose health drinks that are low in sugar and contain essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and proteins.

4. Can children with dietary restrictions consume health drinks?
Yes, there are several health drinks available in the market that are suitable for children with dietary restrictions. It’s important to choose health drinks that are free of allergens and are suitable for your child’s specific dietary needs.

5. Are there any side effects of consuming health drinks?
Excessive consumption of health drinks that are high in sugar or contain harmful additives can lead to health problems like obesity, tooth decay, and diabetes. It’s important to choose health drinks that are low in sugar and do not contain harmful additives. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to consult with a pediatrician before introducing any new health drink or supplement to a child’s diet.

6. Should I consider my child’s age when choosing a health drink?
When selecting a health drink for your child, it’s essential to consider their age. The nutritional needs of children vary depending on their age, and the ingredients and serving size of a health drink should align with those needs. For example, a health drink that is suitable for a toddler may not be suitable for an older child, as their nutritional needs are different. It’s essential to read the label of the health drink and check the recommended age range for consumption. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to consult with a pediatrician before introducing any new health drink or supplement to a child’s diet to ensure that it is appropriate for their age and nutritional needs.

7. How much of health drinks can kids have in a day?
When it comes to the amount of health drinks that kids can have in a day, it’s important to be mindful of their consumption. The recommended serving size of a health drink varies, but as a general guideline, children between the ages of 1 to 6 years should consume no more than 4-6 ounces, which is equivalent to half to three-quarters of a standard glass, per day. For children between 7 to 18 years, the recommended serving size is no more than 8-12 ounces, which is equivalent to one to one and a half standard glasses, per day. However, it’s important to remember that health drinks should not replace a balanced and nutritious diet, and children should primarily obtain their nutrition from whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. It’s also recommended to consult with a pediatrician to determine the appropriate amount and frequency of consumption based on a child’s individual needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the best health drink for child growth in India can be a challenging task. While each health drink has its unique set of benefits and drawbacks, it’s important to choose a health drink that is low in sugar, does not contain harmful additives, and is suitable for a child’s age group and nutritional needs. We hope that this review has helped you make an informed decision for your child’s health and well-being.