SNACKS FOR KIDS

As the school year approaches, it’s time to consider nutrition as an important factor in development. 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 doctors’ offices are mildly dehydrated. Juices and other beverages that contain mostly water may not completely replace water in the diet.

   Other nutrients in the diet, which are of major importance, include fats. The proper balance of these nutrients help the nervous and hormonal systems develop and operate more efficiently. As long as the diet is basically good, and the child is active, good quality fats, such as unrefined oils, butter, egg yolks, and avocados, will enhance this function.

   Foods that should be eliminated are ones containing 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 snacks which could round out an otherwise healthy diet. Try these foods with imaginative presentation (like cutting the bread into shapes) and let your child help prepare them whenever possible. A little extra effort can make good food a fun treat!

• Raw carrot sticks, 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 (it will be sweet enough).
• Whole grain crackers with cheese, nut butter, butter, or plain
• Whole grain bread with butter.
• Half a sandwich: Nut butter (almond butter, sunflower butter, etc.).
• Unprocessed cheese.
• Cream cheese with unsweetened jelly.
• Rice Cake.

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 hydrogenated fats and sugar are not making their way into the diet through mayonnaise or ketchup. Healthier versions are readily available in some stores.

 Good eating habits can build and maintain health, and last a lifetime.