Because children's bodies are constantly growing, they can get hungry quickly due to their high metabolisms. This means that kids often need snacks as part of their daily diet. Feeding your child unhealthy snacks, however, can cause them to gain weight and develop poor eating habits which they can carry into adulthood, so it is important to provide healthy snack options.
Fruits And Vegetables
Fresh fruits and vegetables are some of the best snacks that kids can have, MedLinePlus notes. Fruits and vegetables are typically low in calories and are rich in vitamins and minerals. They also contain fiber, which can help keep your kid feeling full for longer. If your kid seems bored with carrot sticks or apples, you can provide dips such as low-fat ranch dressing or yogurt to provide extra flavor. Offering unusual fruits, such as mangoes, kiwi and pineapple may also help keep your child from getting bored.
Whole Grain Foods
Whole grains are a good snack option because of their high fiber content and because the carbohydrates are burned more slowly. This means pretzels and tortillas and other products made with whole grains will give your child energy for longer, MayoClinic.com explains. Many cereals are also made with whole grains and can be a healthy snack. Combining whole grains with a source of protein, such as peanut butter, canned chicken or tuna can also add extra nutrition to your child's snack.
Low Fat Dairy
Low fat dairy products are another good snacking option for kids. Low fat dairy products are better than their full fat counterparts because they have less saturated fat and cholesterol. Skim or 2 percent milk is high in calcium, which keeps your kids bones strong, as well as vitamin D, which is needed for the absorption of calcium. Milk and cheese also provide protein, which keeps your child from feeling hungry.
Sweets
Most kids crave sweet foods, and you can have healthy snacks for your child which will also satisfy his sweet tooth. Frozen fruit bars and low fat frozen yogurt can be given as a treat, as can fat-free yogurt. You can also give your kids granola bars or make smoothies by combining yogurt, fresh fruit, juice and ice in a blender, the Cleveland Clinic explains. Providing healthy sweet snacks will help your child resist the urge to eat candy and other less healthy options.
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