Healthy Snacking Options for Kids
Snacks are an important part of a kid’s daily diet and it is a tough task to keep it healthy and tasty every time. Plus, snacks should feature whole foods that support growth and development and keep kids properly fuelled throughout the day. To keep your kids away from packaged and convenience foods, here are several healthy snacks for kids you can include to their daily diet:
1. Cottage cheese
Cottage cheese is one of the best snacks for kids and infants as it tends to be soft. It is rich in protein, calcium, selenium, and vitamin B12, which is necessary for growth and brain development in children. Cottage cheese can be served with dried and fresh fruit or can be used as a creamy spread on whole-wheat bread.
2. Yogurt
Yogurt is an excellent snack for kids as it is rich in calcium and protein. Calcium is important for kids as it is good for developing bones. Some yogurt contains bacteria which is beneficial to the digestive system. Using fruits and honey to sweeten the yogurt is the best option when it comes to kids.
3. Oats with milk
Oats are rich in soluble fiber, and hence, are a great snacking option for kids. Serving oats with milk will help to add calcium and protein to the diet. Oats are also rich in antioxidants that are good for health.
4. Veggie pita pocket
Green vegetables are good for health. These snacks for kids are loaded with important vitamins and minerals, making them a great choice for kids. Adding hummus to whole-wheat pita bread pockets and filling them up with raw sliced vegetables like cucumber, carrot, lettuce, bell peppers and tomato can make for a delicious snack for kids.
5. Fruit smoothie
Smoothie is the best option when it comes to healthy snacks because it is packed with nutrients that are necessary for the growth of a child. Using fresh fruits is advisable instead of fruit juice which contains harmful sweetening agents.
6. Boiled eggs
Hard-boiled eggs are rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, which make them excellent snacks for kids. They also contain zeaxanthin and lutein that help to strengthen eye health. Moreover, boiled eggs are a source of choline, which is a vitamin necessary for proper brain development.
7. Baked sweet potato fries and raisin snack packs
Sweet potatoes are one of the richest sources of beta-carotene nutrient which contributes to healthy eyes and skin. Homemade baked sweet potato fries are a good substitute for French fries. Raisin snack packs are easy to make and are also tasty. They contain iron and oleanolic acid which protects the child’s teeth from cavities.
8. Popcorn and nuts
Popcorn is one of the healthiest snacks for kids as it is a nutritious whole grain. You can drizzle butter over it or add cheese, making it appealing for kids. Nuts contain healthy fats, antioxidants, and fiber, which are necessary for the sustenance of growth in children.
Thus, the above-mentioned foods are great snacks for kids as they are rich in nutrients like protein, carbohydrates, and vitamins, which promote their overall growth.