• Skip to main content
  • Skip to footer

Deep Roots at Home

  • Home
  • About
  • Podcast
  • Shop
  • Blog
    • Alternative Medicine
    • Babies & Pregnancy
    • Beauty
    • Books & Booklists
    • Brain & Gut Health
    • Children At Home
    • COVID-19
    • Detoxing & TRS
    • DIY & Crafts
    • Education & Homeschool
    • Faith & Family
    • Feel-Good Stories
    • Flourishing Marriage
    • Flourishing Womanhood
    • Food & Recipes
    • Food Additives
    • Garden & Homestead
    • Healthy Living
    • Herbs & Remedies
    • Holidays
    • Homemaking
    • My Favorite Products
    • News & Alerts
    • Parental Rights
    • Pharma & Vaccines
    • Play, Toys, & Movies
    • Raising Daughters
    • Raising Sons
menu icon
go to homepage
search icon
Homepage link
  • Home
  • About
  • Podcast
  • Shop
  • Popular Blog Topics
  • Alternative Medicine
  • Babies & Pregnancy
  • Beauty
  • Books & Booklists
  • Brain & Gut Health
  • Children at Home
  • COVID-19
  • Detoxing & TRS
  • DIY & Crafts
  • Education & Homeschool
  • Faith & Family
  • Feel-Good Stories
  • Flourishing Marriage
  • Flourishing Womanhood
  • Food & Recipes
  • Food Additives
  • Garden & Homestead
  • Healthy Living
  • Herbs & Remedies
  • Holidays
  • Homemaking
  • My Favorite Products
  • News And Alerts
  • Parenting / Parental Rights
  • Pharmaceutical Warnings
  • Play / Toys
  • Raising Daughters
  • Raising Sons
  • Popular This Week
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • ×

    No Additive Kool-Aid Recipe: Kid-Approved, Happy Mom!

    69.3KViews Modified: Apr 7, 2022 · Published: Mar 15, 2016
    By Jacqueline 75 Comments

    Share13.8K
    Telegram
    Pin3.6K
    17.3K Shares
    No Additive Kool-Aid Recipe: Kid-Approved, Happy Mom! summertime drink, red drink, pitcher of Kool-Aid

    Updated 1/2020

    The first time I remember having ‘Kool-Aid’ was at summer church camp during my young teens. I loved drinking it when I was so thirsty after my Jr. Life-Saving class. It was a novelty, staining our mouths and tongues red. My mom never bought this for us at home!

    Later, as a young married wife, I helped serve Kool-Aid during our play group snack time, and all the Moms made comments on how wound up the children were. We thought it was sugar, but I don’t think we had made the connection between artificial food dyes and hyperactivity back in the 80s.

    little boy with glass of Kool-Aid, red stain on shirt, messy face

    (Source)

    The Washington Post and the American Academy of Pediatricians (AAP)  have recently spoken out that artificial food dyes have been linked to hyperactivity, and it’s not just in candy. “Americans are really turned on by a bright-red strawberry juice, and they think it’s natural,” said Kantha Shelke, co-president of the food research firm Corvus Blue. The Center for Science in the Public Interest points to studies suggesting that some of the dyes are also suspected carcinogens.

    Food Dyes & Labeling

    No Additive Kool-Aid Recipe: Kid-Approved, Happy Mom! Center for Science in the Public Interest food dye chart.

    Here is what the Kool-Aid label tells us is ‘good for kids’:

    KOOL-AID INGREDIENTS: Sugar, Fructose, Citric Acid (Provides Tartness), Contains Less Than 2% Of: Natural And Artificial Flavor, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Vitamin E Acetate, Calcium Phosphate (Prevents Caking), Acesulfame Potassium (almost as nasty as aspartame) And Sucralose (Sweeteners), Artificial Color, Red 40, Blue 1, BHA (Preserves Freshness).

    While I delighted in my children even when they were rambunctious and very busy, I hoped to avoid anything that would make them feel or act out of control. Looking back, I wish I had known about this when we were trying to figure out food allergies. Who wants to rev up their children even more than they already are?

    Watch This: How Foods With Additives & Dyes Affect Children’s Behavior

    So if you want to serve the children a bright, sparkling, sweet and delicious red drink that won’t make them act silly, get angry, aggressive, or just plain hyper, I think you will want this recipe.

    ‘Better Than Kool-Aid’ is made like a tea with three ingredients:

    Stevia leaf is known for its amazing sweetness and smoothness~

    I only use the organic whole dried leaf (unrefined). It is an herb, from a plant and is in no way synthetic or an artificial sweetener.

    Stevia is being increasingly studied as a tool to help manage and possibly prevent type 2 diabetes. Several small studies, including a study published in July 2018 by the American Diabetes Association (ADA), have found that stevia did not raise blood sugar or insulin levels in participants who were lean or obese. (source)

    It may promote better insulin function, according to the ​Journal of Functional Foods. Lastly, ​the ​Journal of Nutrition​ reveals stevia may help you feel more full, meaning that you’re less likely to overeat.

    'Better Than Kool-Aid' Recipe: Kid Approved, Happy Mom! stevia leaf.

    Hibiscus flower gives off its bright red color and has a sweet tart taste that really quenches your thirst~

    It is filled with health benefits:

    • It’s anti-inflammatory
    • it’s very calming and relieves stress when taken daily like a medicine (see study)
    • It helps gently lower blood pressure
    • It may help lower blood fats
    • Boosts liver health
    • Could promote weight loss
    • Contains compounds that prevent cancer
    • Could help control bacterial
    • And is filled with bright flavor..naturally!

    'Better Than Kool-Aid' Recipe: Kid Approved, Happy Mom!, food dyes, hyperactivity, Artificial Color, Red 40, Blue 1, Acesulfame Potassium (aspartame), Center for Science in the Public Interest, CSPI, food dyes, carcinogenic, food research firm Corvus Blue, American Academy of Pediatricians (AAP), ADHD, ADD, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, attention-deficit disorder, children, drinking soft drinks, candy with red coloring, blue coloring, yellow, orange, green coloring, addictive chemicals, summertime drink, red drink, pitcher of Kool-Aid, hibiscus leaf, cut herb, food dyes and hyperactivity, Artificial Color, Red 40, Blue 1, Acesulfame Potassium (aspartame), Center for Science in the Public Interest, CSPI, food dyes, carcinogenic, food research firm Corvus Blue, American Academy of Pediatricians (AAP), ADHD, ADD, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, attention-deficit disorder, children, drinking soft drinks, candy with red coloring, blue coloring, yellow, orange, green coloring, addictive chemicals, Bulk Herb Store

    …and Peppermint leaf is so cooling on a hot summer’s day~

    'Better Than Kool-Aid' Recipe: Kid Approved, Happy Mom!, food dyes, hyperactivity, Artificial Color, Red 40, Blue 1, Acesulfame Potassium (aspartame), Center for Science in the Public Interest, CSPI, food dyes, carcinogenic, food research firm Corvus Blue, American Academy of Pediatricians (AAP), ADHD, ADD, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, attention-deficit disorder, children, drinking soft drinks, candy with red coloring, blue coloring, yellow, orange, green coloring, addictive chemicals, summertime drink, red drink, pitcher of Kool-Aid, Bulk Herb Store, peppermint herb, food dyes and hyperactivity, Artificial Color, Red 40, Blue 1, Acesulfame Potassium (aspartame), Center for Science in the Public Interest, CSPI, food dyes, carcinogenic, food research firm Corvus Blue, American Academy of Pediatricians (AAP), ADHD, ADD, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, attention-deficit disorder, children, drinking soft drinks, candy with red coloring, blue coloring, yellow, orange, green coloring, addictive chemicals, peppermint herb, cooling

    Besides tasting terrific, a great thing about my alternative is that it is sugar-free and dye-free. It has a lot of extra healthy benefits as it’s loaded with Vitamin C and bioflavonoids.

    Kool-Aid Recipe:

    Pour 2 cups of boiling water over:

    • 4 TBSP Hibiscus flowers
    • 1 1/2 to 2 tsp Stevia leaves depending on the desired sweetness (fresh or dried herb)
    • 3 1/2 tsp Peppermint leaves (dried herb)(if using fresh peppermint leaves, use 10-15 6-inch mint sprigs as dried leaves are more concentrated)

    Stir to immerse the herbs fully. Soon you will see the deep rich ruby-red color flow from the hibiscus herb. It is beautiful to watch.

    Incredibly Simple Directions:

    • Let the 3 ingredients above steep for 15 to 20 minutes in the boiling water
    • Strain into a 1/2 gallon pitcher. (I use this type of strainer).
    • Add several cups of ice
    • Fill the rest of the way with cold water. Serve chilled.

    'Better Than Kool-Aid' Recipe: Kid Approved, Happy Mom! Hibiscus flowers from Bulk Herb Store and steeping tea leaves

     

    No Additive Kool-Aid Recipe: Kid-Approved, Happy Mom! A big pitcher of Kool-Aid being made

    • Which Is Worse: Sugar Or Aspartame?
    • Watch This: How Foods With Additives & Dyes Affect Children’s Behavior
    • Addictive Flavors & Foods To Avoid
    • For more on code-words that are used to cover-up usage of seriously dangerous ingredients: Does ‘Tasty’ Kill? ~ Excitotoxins

    We have a HUGE, exciting announcement. Deep Roots At Home now has a PODCAST! We are doing this on a trial period to see if this interests our audience. So head over today and like, share and download the first few episodes! https://buff.ly/3KmTZZd

    I am only on FB now by the grace of God… if you want to stay connected, here is one way…

    bookmark or browser

    You can also find me on Instagram and Telegram.

    “True healthcare reform starts in your own kitchen, not in Washington.”  ~Anonymous

    No Additive Kool-Aid Recipe: Kid-Approved, Happy Mom. A cold glass of ruby red Kool-Aid with ice

    Print Friendly, PDF & Email
    Share13.8K
    Telegram
    Pin3.6K
    17.3K Shares
    « Pediatricians Call Gender Ideology What It Is: Child Abuse
    Kids Vitamins & 50 Aspartame-Containing Products to Leave On the Shelf »

    Related

    Hi! I’m Jacqueline!

    Thanks for being part of this journey with me.
    Welcome to my own little place on the internet! Home is where I love to be. I feel there is no greater place to incubate souls. These days you’ll find me using my experiences here to write about herbal remedies and natural health research — a big passion of mine. But being a wife and mother is not easy. It is challenging and potentially lonely. I get that. I wanted to create a place to connect with and support other moms for creating a natural, healthy, and fulfilling home life.
    Join the newsletter:

    Sent in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

    Footer

    About Deep Roots at Home

    What is Deep Roots at Home?
    Jacqueline’s Story
    Article Archives
    Contact
    Stay Updated

    Weekly updates on the topics that matter the most to you!

    Sent in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

    Popular Posts This Week
    • “Awareful Prayerful” Videos Part #2
    • Dr. Bill Wolfe’s List Of Homeopathic Dental Remedies
    • Part 1: What Is The Enneagram & Is It A “Christian” Thing?
    • 4 Ways To Keep Monsanto Out Of Your Home Garden

    Affiliate Disclosure  •  Medical Disclosure  •  Privacy Policy  •  Cookie Policy

    The information on this website has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease. By accessing or using this website, you agree to abide by the Terms of Service, Full Disclaimer, Privacy Policy, Affiliate Disclosure, and Comment Policy. Content may not be reproduced in any form. Website by Imperative Co.



    © 2006–2023 Deep Roots at Home • All Rights Reserved

    Many people don’t see me on the Deep Roots at Home Facebook page these days due to censorship.

    Come straight to Deeprootsathome.com instead and find out what you’re missing!

    You can even make DRAH your browser homepage.

    Get your free printable guide!

    Fill in your email address to receive the free “5 Easy, Homemade Remedies to Beat Coughs & Colds” printable PDF.

    Get your free printable guide!

    Fill in your email address to receive the free “5 Easy + Healthy Lifestyle Drinks” printable PDF.

    Get your free printable guide!

    Fill in your email address to receive the free “Make Your Own Elderberry Syrup — with Easy Recipes!” printable PDF.

    Subscribe to Email Updates

    By adding your email address below, you agree to receive email updates from Deep Roots at Home. You’ll get 2-6 emails per month with info that we can’t share on social media and important updates. We may send occasional marketing / sales emails.

    Get your free printable guide!

    Fill in your email address to receive the free “Treasured Old Books” printable guide.

    Get the printable ebook!

    Fill in your email address to receive the free “Dyslexia Tips” ebook from Sarah J. Brown.

    Get your free printable guide!

    Fill in your email address to receive the free “Starving Brains & Poor Attention Spans in Boys: 30 Tips for Parents” printable PDF.

    Get your free ebook!

    Fill in your email address to receive the free “Vital Vaccine Info” printable e-book.

    Get your free printable guide!

    Fill in your email address to receive the free “31 Days of Praying Scripture for Newlyweds” printable guide.

    Get the freebie of the season!

    Fill in your email address to receive the free “100 Wholehearted Books to Take Back the Culture” printable guide.

    Praying for newlyweds is perhaps the best gift we can give them! Receive this printable PDF: “31 Days of Praying Scripture for Newlyweds.” 

    Prayers for Husbands

    View our privacy policy.

    The PDF will arrive in your inbox! You’ll also get about 1-2 emails a month (including the seasonal freebies!) and can unsubscribe at any time.

    ¡Nos gustaría mantener en contacto! Y usted recibirá un obsequio importante de la temporada: “Cerebros Ambrientes y Escasa Atención En Los Niños” PDF imprimible.

    Spanish Boys Attention Spans

    Ver nuestra política de privacidad.


    ¡El PDF llegará a su buzón de entrada! ¡Usted recibirá 1 – 2 correos electrónicos al mes (incluyendo los regalos de temporada!) y puede cancelar su suscripción en cualquier momento. 
    We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.Ok