Snacks for Kids
Anytime of year is a good time to consider good nutrition in children. The make-up of your child's diet certainly effects the brain and learning process.
One of the most vital nutrients is water, which should be the liquid most commonly consumed by your child. Many children who visit the doctor are found to be mildly dehydrated. Juice and other beverages that contain mostly water may no completely replace water in the diet.
Another vital nutrient important in the child's diet is fat. The proper balance of these nutrients help the nervous an hormonal systems develop and operate more efficiently. As long as the diet is basically good, and the child is active, good quality natural fats like unrefined oils, butter, egg yolks, real cheese and avocados, will enhance this function.
Foods that should be eliminated are hydrogenated and overcooked fats, excessive sugar, food coloring, and other artificial chemical food additives which may have a negative effect on the physical and mental processes.
Below are samples of some healthy snacks. Try these food with imaginative presentation (like cutting bread into shapes and let your child help prepare them whenever possible. A little extra effort can make good food a fun treat!
…Raw sticks of carrot, celery, cucumber or zucchini with cheese
… Fresh ripe fruit like apples, pears, peaches, or bananas with nut butter (almond, sesame) for spreading and dipping.
… Plain yogurt sweetened with fresh fruit.
… Whole grain crackers with nut butter, butter, or plain.
… Whole grain bread with butter.
… Half a sandwich: Nut butter (almond or sunflower etc.)
… Unprocessed cheese.
… Cream cheese with unsweetened jelly.
Use the "real thing" whenever possible. For instance, try real cheese instead of a spread, and turkey breast instead of bologna. Mildly carbonated water with fruit juice added is a great replacement for soda. Read labels to insure that items like mayonnaise or ketchup do not have hydrogenated fats or sugar. Healthier versions are readily available in some stores.
Good eating habits can build and maintain health, and last a lifetime.