Healthy Kids' Snacks In Australia

Snacks are a major part of any child's diet because they help fill nutritional gaps, as well as stave off hunger between meals. The type of snacks offered to children varies around the world, but no matter where your child lives, healthy snacks are an essential part of their overall diet. KidsHealth.org adds that nutritious snacks can also give your child a burst of energy to last him until his next meal is served. Traditional Australian snacks supply some important nutrients and are kid-pleasing ways to feed your child between meals.

Lamingtons

Lamingtons are a popular snack among children in Australia. It is a piece of sponge cake dipped in chocolate and then rolled in coconut. A few tweaks and this can actually be a low-fat snack that also supplies some important nutrients and antioxidants. Replacing the sponge cake with angel food cake is a healthy way to significantly lower the fat and calorie content of the snack while also retaining some of the sweetness from the cake. Using dark chocolate in place of milk chocolate also lowers the fat and sugar content of the snack, as well as supplies some healthy antioxidants. Coconut is a healthy source of fiber, potassium and iron. These modified Lamingtons are a healthier alternative to the popular gummy candies and Cadbury brand chocolates many Australian children enjoy.

Macadamia Nuts

Macadamia nuts are another popular snack in Australia and they are nutritionally beneficial to your child. According to MayoClinic.com, a diet that includes nuts may be beneficial to your child's heart by helping to prevent blood clots, as well as helping to keep his arteries strong and healthy. Macadamia nuts also contain vitamin E, which helps protect your child's arteries and prevent the build up of plaque. As a snack, macadamia nuts may also help increase your child's intake of fiber and protein, which supply energy and contribute to healthy growth and development. Macadamia nuts are also a healthy alternative to the popular Cheezels and Twisties, which are similar to cheese puffs or potato chips.

Toast With Vegemite

Vegemite is enormously popular in Australia and is usually served to children as a snack smeared on a piece of toast. Vegemite is a spread made from yeast extract that tastes similar to beef bouillon, but is slightly sweet as well. Vegemite is fat and cholesterol free and contains only 40 calories per serving. It is also a good source of niacin, riboflavin and thiamin. Vegemite also contains half of your child's daily folic acid needs in just one serving. It also contains 1.3 g of protein per serving. Use whole-wheat bread to make Vegemite a high-fiber snack.

Fruit

Any type of fruit is a healthy snack for children no matter where they live. Oranges, bananas and grapes are common fruits grown in Australia and each supply a healthy dose of nutrients like fiber, potassium, vitamin C and vitamin A. Offer your child a half cup of one of these fruits as a low-calorie and low-fat snack that also supplies vitamins and minerals they need for good health and proper growth.