Toddler & Decaff tea - thoughts?

[CharnwoodFire]

Is it okay to give a toddler Decaff tea (albeit weak and milky)?

I’d probably go for redbush/rooibosh at that age. The process of decaffeinating involves a lot of chemicals as I understand it.

No don't do it. Stomach acid issues

Why would you when you can give them milk or water?

Why? Loads of other things to drink! If they want a warm drink warm milk or even hot chocolate better or warm apple juice

I don't think it would do any harm as a very occasional treat, but I wouldn't give it regularly. Even though it's decaff, it still contains the chemical that interferes with iron absorption.

I've given my toddler Rooibos tea, she really likes it. I can't see any issue, it's mostly water

because hot choc and apple juice are pure sugar? Tea is a far better option for their teeth and health.

To be honest, if i was to give him a hot drink, I'll just give him hot weak squash or a bit of milk in hot water. But he does like a sup out of my cup...

Interesting about iron absorption @NannyR . My dm only ever drinks tea (nothing else) and has done for the past 40+ years... so I worried for a moment. But looking into it, the effects of tea on iron absorption are evident but small - nothing to worry about.

@Peonies12 @Fuckingfuckssake I'm always a bit nervous about Rooibosh tea as I've heard it can seriously affect liver function. Though I should double check how significant the risk is - it might not be much. But I wouldn't give it to a toddler to be on the safe side.