Whenever the kids are sick, keeping them hydrated is a big goal. But, drinking plain water isn’t always the best, especially if they aren’t keeping anything down. To help with this, our family has a tradition. When sickness strikes, we make Feel Better Punch.
It’s a simple concoction that helps the kids drink more and usually start feeling better.
What Is Feel Better Punch?
Back in 2011, my little Sydney was born. Following her birth, the midwife gave me this tasty drink to bring my blood sugars back up and help me recover. It was incredible. So I asked what it was…she told me and I couldn’t believe I’d never thought to combine these two drinks before.
I enjoy them both individually, but when you combine them it is wonderful!
So we’ve been whipping up this hydrating drink for the past seven years. It really does seem to help.
It has a nice flavor that encourages the kids to drink. We typically just drink water and milk around here, so this seems like a fancy treat to them. It’s something special for them when they are not feeling well.
And, it’s a tradition that the whole family now requests…traditions when you are sick are just super special.
What Ingredients Are in Feel Better Punch?
There are only two ingredients in Feel Better Punch (well three if you want to add ice…)
You’ll need:
- 1 bottle of 100% Cranberry Juice (a blend is fine, we like Cranberry- Raspberry)
- 4 cans of 7-Up
- A pitcher to mix it in
- A spoon for stirring
- Straws
How to Make Your Own Batch of Feel Better Punch
This is about the least complicated recipe you can get. But, here’s what you do:
- Pour the entire bottle of juice into a pitcher
- Open the cans of 7-Up and slowly add them to the juice (be careful they will foam)
- Stir gently
- Pour into cups and serve with a straw to encourage sipping
- Deliver to sick child and ask them to take a drink

When sickness is spreading, we typically alternate this tasty drink with some nourishing bone broth soup. It’s all about balance…and staying hydrated!
Here’s to staying healthy!
Do You Have Traditions When Sickness Strikes?
What does your family do when sickness spreads? Do you have a special drink recipe like our punch? Or do you eat a certain food?
I’d love to hear about your family’s sick day traditions in the comments section below.
This post was first published on Sep 17, 2015. It’s been updated and refreshed.
