The cooler months are accompanied by cold and flu germs, which is why it’s important for parents and caregivers to boost the immune systems of little ones. One of the best ways to do this is through diet, and Laager Tea4Kidz Rooibos partner dietitian, Mbali Mapholi, has shared some great tips and recipes for immune boosting this winter.
“Key nutrients like vitamins A, C, and D, as well as zinc and probiotics, all play a big role in keeping kids healthy, and it can be easier than you think to include them in everyday meals!” explained Mbali. “These can be found in colourful fruit like oranges and strawberries, vegetables like pumpkin and spinach, yoghurt, oats, seeds, and even mushrooms left in the sun for a little vitamin D boost.”
She says another ‘simple yet powerful’ addition to any meal is Laager Tea4Kidz Rooibos: “It’s naturally caffeine-free and packed with antioxidants that help fight inflammation and support immunity. It’s delicious on its own, but also works beautifully in smoothies, iced teas and warm drinks.”
To support young immune systems this winter, Mbali has shared 4 easy, affordable, and tasty recipes.
- Tyla Smoothie: Laager Tea4Kidz Rooibos Tropical Immune Booster
This is a simple, fruity, and immune-fortifying smoothie inspired by South African pride and sunshine. The key ingredients include vitamin C from mango and banana, and zinc and probiotics from yoghurt.
Ingredients
· 1 Laager Tea4Kidz Rooibos teabag
· ½ cup boiling water
· ½ banana (fresh or frozen)
· ¼ cup mango chunks (fresh or frozen)
· ¼ cup plain yoghurt or vanilla-flavoured yoghurt
· 1 tsp honey (optional, for children over 1 year)
· Ice or ¼ cup cold water to blend
Instructions
1. Brew Laager Tea4Kidz Rooibos tea bag in boiling water for 5 minutes. Remove the tea bag.
2. Pour into a blender and add other ingredients, blending as you add them until smooth and creamy.
3. Serve in a glass or a fun cup with a swirl of berry yoghurt.
2. Laager Tea4Kidz Rooibos & Apple Jelly Cube
This is an easy, homemade lunchbox treat packed with natural sweetness and fibre. Gut health is central to immunity, and the apple fibre supports healthy gut bacteria, while Laager Tea4Kidz Rooibos helps reduce oxidative stress.
Ingredients
· 2 Laager Tea4Kidz Rooibos Apple & Berry tea bags
· 1½ cups boiling water
· 1 Tbsp honey (optional)
· 2 tsp gelatin (or agar-agar for vegetarian option)
· ½ cup grated apple (2 fresh apples)
Instructions
1. Brew Laager Tea4Kidz Rooibos in boiling water for 5 minutes. Remove the tea bag.
2. Stir in honey and gelatin until dissolved.
3. Add grated apple and pour into moulds.
4. Refrigerate until firm (about 4 hours).
3. Laager Tea4Kidz Rooibos Veggie Noodle Soup
This is a hydrating, nourishing soup to warm up little bodies on chilly days. The vitamin A from carrots and peas supports immune cell development, while turmeric has natural anti-inflammatory properties.
Ingredients
· 1 cup strongly brewed Laager Tea4Kidz Rooibos (2 tea bags)
· 1 pack of dry instant noodles
· Chives or spring onion
· ¼ cup frozen peas
· Pinch of salt & pepper (optional)
· Pinch of turmeric (optional)
Instructions
1. In a pot, combine brewed Laager Tea4Kidz Rooibos and instant noodles.
2. Steam frozen peas in a microwave or pot for 3 minutes or until soft.
3. Add veggies over the noodles and seasoning. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
4. Serve warm in a bowl.
4. Laager Tea4Kidz Rooibos Citrus Iced Tea
This is a refreshingly hydrating drink with a burst of vitamin C from both the citrus and the Laager Tea4Kidz Rooibos enriched with vitamin C. It’s natural hydration without the sugar overload!
Ingredients
· 2 Laager Tea4Kidz Rooibos Peach & Apricot or Apple & Berry tea bags
· 1½ cups boiling water
· ¼ cup orange juice (squeeze 2 -3 oranges)
· 2 lemon slices
· 1 tsp honey (optional)
· Ice cubes
· Mint leaves (optional)
Instructions
1. Brew Laager Tea4Kidz Rooibos in boiling water for 3-5 minutes. Remove the tea bag and let it cool.
2. Stir in orange juice, honey, and lemon slices.
3. Pour over ice and garnish with mint. 4. Serve in a fun bottle or glass jar.
(Images Credit: Londi Ndlovu)
