Store-bought snacks are convenient for parents and can supply children with nutrients as well. The trick is to make the correct distinction between unhealthy snacks and nutritious snacks. Packaged baked goods are often high in sugar, and many types of store-bought crackers are high in saturated fat. However, many store-bought options supply vitamins and minerals and are also low in fat, calories and sugar.
Protein Snacks
Protein is an essential nutrient because it helps your child grow. Protein is also important for regulating your child's energy so he is able to participate in school and other activities. A protein-packed snack is a healthy store-bought option if is low in fat and salt. Prepackaged nuts in individual snack-sized portions are convenient because they are easy to grab and go and also contain several grams of protein. A protein bar can be healthy if it includes whole grains and is low in sugar. Many supermarkets offer small cups of peanut butter that are snack-sized, and some come with crackers for dipping, which supplies protein and fiber.
Fruit and Vegetable Snacks
Fruits and vegetables are always healthy snacks that supply vitamins and minerals. Frozen fruit pops provide nutrition if you choose the right ones. Many brands of fruit pops do not include any fruit at all, but choosing ones made with real fruit and without added sugar can be a healthy and refreshing snack for your child. Individually packaged servings of no-sugar-added applesauce are a healthy choice; they contain fiber and vitamin C. Small packages of baby carrots or celery sticks are packed with nutrition as well.
Calcium Snacks
Calcium helps your child build bone mass as well as maintain the health of her teeth and muscles. Yogurt is a notable source of calcium. Many brands of yogurt come in individual serving-sized cartons or tubes. Read the ingredient and nutrition labels carefully to find a brand that is low in sugar. Cottage cheese is available in individual serving sizes as well and supplies a dose of calcium. String cheese or individually packaged cheese squares are also high in calcium. Individual servings of milk are another healthy choice if you choose reduced-fat white milk rather than chocolate milk.
Carbohydrate Snacks
Complex carbohydrates such as those found in whole-wheat crackers and whole-grain cereals and breads are notable sources of fiber that also provide several hours of sustained energy. Look for individually packaged servings of whole-wheat crackers made with unsaturated fats such as vegetable oil. Fish-shaped crackers come in whole-grain versions packaged in snack-sized bags. Kids can eat small boxes of whole-wheat cereal dry as a fiber-filled snack. Many cereals are enriched with essential nutrients, such as iron, that also contribute to a healthy energy level for your child.
References
- "Healthy Carb Cookbook For Dummies"; Jan McCracken; 2005
- "Real Food for Healthy Kids: 200+ Easy, Wholesome Recipes"; Tracey Seaman, et al.; 2008
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