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Cranberries for children: is it possible or not?
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025

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Cranberries for children are a huge source of useful substances that strengthen children's immunity and improve metabolic processes in the body. If parents want their child to be healthy, they need to introduce cranberries into the child's autumn-winter diet (preferably fresh or in the form of uncooked fruit drinks from fresh berries).
Some sources recommend using cranberries in children's diets starting from six months - in the form of fruit drinks and compotes. Other experts believe that any dishes and drinks made from cranberries should not be given to children under three years of age.
Parents should decide for themselves what to do, having tried to introduce the berry in the form of a drink and in small doses. If there is no allergy, then the baby can safely be given up to a glass of cranberry compote or fruit drink per day. Only these drinks need to be prepared with honey (add to warm or cooled liquid) and in clean water.
It is also better to add honey to cranberry puree, since sugar causes a decrease in immunity and also worsens the absorption of calcium in the body. These are not acceptable things at all, since a child needs calcium in large quantities and for everything: teeth, bones, hair, nails, and so on.
Cranberries for children under one year
You should not introduce cranberries into the diet of a baby under six months of age. Since the berry has an intense red color, due to the presence of certain substances that can cause allergic reactions in the child.
In fresh form, for example, as berry puree, cranberries should not be given to babies until they are one year old. And in this case, you need to be careful. If the child has an allergy to other brightly colored vegetables and fruits, then cranberries should be given in small doses and with caution.
The best form of using cranberries in a children's menu is in the form of berry fruit drinks and compotes. Moreover, you first need to prepare a small amount of the drink, and give the child a teaspoon to try. If no allergic reactions appear within 24 hours, you can let the baby drink a tablespoon (or two) of the liquid. And again, observe the child's condition.
If there are no signs of allergy, you can safely introduce cranberry drinks into your baby's daily diet. The main thing is to observe moderation and give your child about half a glass of cranberry drinks per day.
It is necessary to remind that fruit drinks and compotes from cranberries should be prepared with clean water and with the addition of honey (not sugar).
Cranberries for children under one year old are a priceless source of vitamins, minerals and other useful substances that will allow the baby to grow up strong and healthy.
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