Growing kids often get hungry between meals.
The sad thing is that many packaged snacks are extremely unhealthy and often full of refined flour, added sugars, and artificial ingredients.
Snack time is a great opportunity to sneak some extra nutrients into their diet, so fill their tummies with whole foods that will provide energy and nutrition.
1. Yogurt
Yoghurt is an excellent snack for kids because it’s a good source of protein and calcium. Calcium is especially important for kids’ developing bones. Some yogurts also contain live bacteria, which benefit the digestive system. Most yogurts marketed to kids are high in sugar. So, choose a plain, full-fat yogurt and sweeten it with fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey.
NB: If you send to school as a snack you want to place in an insulated bag to keep it cool and stop it from being a smelly mess.
2. Popcorn
You may consider popcorn to be junk food, but it’s really a nutritious whole grain. If you don’t drown it in unhealthy toppings, popcorn can be a healthy snack for kids. Air-pop your own popcorn. Have it on its own or sprinkle it with a little seasoning.
3. Apple with peanut butter and/or sultanas
(if sending to school check their nut policy first)
Apple with peanut butter and/or sultanas, is a delicious snack.
Slice up the apple and smear each piece with peanut butter put the apple back together, add sultanas and put in a sealed container. These three foods combined provide a good balance of carbs, protein, and fat.
Just be sure to buy peanut butter without added sugar or vegetable oils.
4. Vegetable sticks and guacamole or hummus
Capsicums are naturally sweet and highly nutritious. They provide a good source of fibre, vitamin C and carotenoids. Carotenoids are plant compounds with multiple health benefits, including supporting eye health. Capsicum tastes delicious dipped in guacamole or hummus.
NB: Other alternatives could be Carrots, Celery, Apple or Wholegrain crackers.
