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Easter time is near! If you’re looking for artificial dye free Easter basket ideas, look no further. We’ve got plenty – some sweet and some sugar free. Watch this video for the ultimate guide to creating artificial dye free Easter baskets!
The Ultimate Guide to Artificial Dye Free Easter Baskets
What’s wrong with artificial dye?
If you’re kids go crazy after eating candy, you’re not alone. Sugar can trigger hyperactivity, but artificial dye in food, prescription drugs and over the counter medications may have adverse affects on brain processing, development and behavior. Some research that suggests a connection between dye consumption and ADHD, learning disabilities and behavior challenges. If your kid struggles in any of these areas, it might be worth removing to see if they have any improvements. Removing dyes won’t automatically heal your kid, but it may help.
When did we remove artificial dye?
A few years ago my kids and I enjoyed a sweet afternoon of Christmas crafts, music and movies. Trying to be a festive and fun Mom, I handed out candy canes. Bad idea. Within moments, the younger one erupted into an angry fit and the older one was in tears. Really?? So fast?? Yes.
After scrolling through various health blogs, I discovered plenty of moms went through the same thing with fake dyes. I cut out fake food dye after Christmas to see if it helped reduce meltdowns. Guess what? It did.
Over a few months, I paid attention when they ate fake food dye at birthday party or special event. Same thing each time. Little one got angry, older one in tears. Same response each time.
Maybe it was the sugar? Possible. I began swapping treats with natural dye alternatives. Sure, a hit of sugar got them a little hyped. Angry and tearful meltdowns? Nope. I was sold.
Do my kids ever have artificial dye these days? Occasionally. At a party, a family event, things happen. But now I prepare myself peacefully for the aftershock that’s coming;)
How do I start removing artificial food dye?
Observe your kids reaction to dye. Remove artificial dyes for two months, then reintroduce it and watch for adverse reactions. Check labels for ingredients that have a color and number combination, like Red #40, Yellow #6 or Blue #2. Fake dye can be sneaky. Check over the counter meds, juice, popsicles, vitamins, chips, cereal and ice cream. Check everything that goes in their mouth!
Kids get snacks at school, church and activities. Let the teacher know ahead of time you are removing dye. Ofter to bring an alternative for your kids. You may also want to talk to your kids about the change in their diet. In our home, we teach them to make healthy choices for their body as a way to honor God’s creation. The bible says;
Have you forgotten that your body is now the sacred temple of the Spirit of Holiness, who lives in you? You don’t belong to yourself any longer, for the gift of God, the Holy Spirit, lives inside your sanctuary. You were God’s expensive purchase, paid for with tears of blood, so by all means, then, use your body to bring glory to God!
1 Cor. 6: 19-20
As we care for our health, we care for God’s creation! God made us with love and intention. Honor God by caring for body with the same heart. Plus, there are so many natural dye treats today we can enjoy!
Best Products for Artificial Dye Free Easter Baskets
Healthy Easter Basket Roundup
Best Natural Dye Jelly Beans
Trader Joe’s Gourmet Jelly Beans
Dyed with natural fruits, they’ll never know the difference.
Best Natural Dye Bunny Gummies
Yum Earth
Non-GMO, Vegan and Allergen Free – this treat is for everyone!
Best Candy Free Toddler Item
Hopping Spring Animals
Little ones love playing with these long after Easter morning!
Common Questions / Frequently Asked Questions about Artificial Dye
The last thing you need to know about making an artificial dye free Easter basket.
Lastly, focus on the real meaning of Easter with you kids. As you prepare for Easter, spend time praying, reading the Bible and talking about the reason why we celebrate Easter Sunday – Jesus! The more you place attention on Jesus, the less important the treats will be on Easter morning.
