7 Healthy Snacks for Parents on The Run
By Shondell Varcianna
November 06, 2015
Lifestyle
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When your children have an active lifestyle, sometimes it's hard to feed them nutritious and fun foods to satisfy them and you. There are choices you can make that really don't require anything except commitment. Taking the time to follow through with this commitment is easier than you realize, and will go a long way in its rewards. Look at what kids snack on between breakfast and dinner and you would be surprised. If you fight the urge to choose what's convenient over what is better, you're ahead of the game. Here are four healthy snacks for parents on the run.
1. Fruits and veggies still rule
Don't overlook the power and pleasure of these foods. Some fruits have the vitamin C needed for immunity and substances essential for normal functionality. Orange slices, grapes, raisins, berries strawberries, raspberries, blueberries), mangos, and papayas are just a few that come to mind. Vegetables such as celery, tomatoes and carrots are great also when you're on the go.
2. Nuts are natures booster
When it comes to high energy foods that are protein enriched and really portable, this is a great source. Think almonds, peanuts, walnuts and cashews. Since a handful goes a long way to fill you up, the kids will enjoy the burst of energy without knowing it's good for them. Plus, they're low in calories and high in fiber.
3. Homemade snack mix offers variety
Formerly known as trail mix, this food source is only limited by your imagination. Combine popcorn, crackers, raisins, almonds, pretzels, cereal and spices to start. All kids love snacks so this should satisfy their appetites.
4. Salads have come a long way
Salads these days are very versatile and fun to eat. Think outside the box when you prepare this food, and stay away from added calories in the dressing. Varieties of salads such as grilled chicken breast with raisins, or cubed chicken with Mandarin orange sections give the kids protein along with the fiber and vitamins without unnecessary calories.
5. Don't count out grains
Think pasta such as spaghetti or macaroni. Not only is it quick to cook, they come in various shapes and sizes. You can top it with tomato sauce and low-calorie, low-fat parmesan cheese. The added benefit of tomato sauce are tomatoes which is loaded with lycopene.
6. Yogurt is nutrient rich
Greek vs plain (regular)? It's great to have choices and between the two, both are positive. Greek is more creamy and higher in nutrients while being lower in calories and fat. Stay away from fruit on the bottom versions due to unnecessary added sugars and additives. What's even better is what you can add, which also is limited by your imagination. Fruit, grains (granola, oats), almonds with honey come to mind but get creative. Make your own creations.
7. Muffins can be magical
A muffin a day is a great source of fiber, while satisfying kids sweet tooth. Flavors like bran, granola, blueberry are just some of the choices. Or, if you like to bake, this could be a great way to get the kids involved, while teaching them about nutrition
Picture by Sheri Chen
1. Fruits and veggies still rule
Don't overlook the power and pleasure of these foods. Some fruits have the vitamin C needed for immunity and substances essential for normal functionality. Orange slices, grapes, raisins, berries strawberries, raspberries, blueberries), mangos, and papayas are just a few that come to mind. Vegetables such as celery, tomatoes and carrots are great also when you're on the go.
2. Nuts are natures booster
When it comes to high energy foods that are protein enriched and really portable, this is a great source. Think almonds, peanuts, walnuts and cashews. Since a handful goes a long way to fill you up, the kids will enjoy the burst of energy without knowing it's good for them. Plus, they're low in calories and high in fiber.
3. Homemade snack mix offers variety
Formerly known as trail mix, this food source is only limited by your imagination. Combine popcorn, crackers, raisins, almonds, pretzels, cereal and spices to start. All kids love snacks so this should satisfy their appetites.
4. Salads have come a long way
Salads these days are very versatile and fun to eat. Think outside the box when you prepare this food, and stay away from added calories in the dressing. Varieties of salads such as grilled chicken breast with raisins, or cubed chicken with Mandarin orange sections give the kids protein along with the fiber and vitamins without unnecessary calories.
5. Don't count out grains
Think pasta such as spaghetti or macaroni. Not only is it quick to cook, they come in various shapes and sizes. You can top it with tomato sauce and low-calorie, low-fat parmesan cheese. The added benefit of tomato sauce are tomatoes which is loaded with lycopene.
6. Yogurt is nutrient rich
Greek vs plain (regular)? It's great to have choices and between the two, both are positive. Greek is more creamy and higher in nutrients while being lower in calories and fat. Stay away from fruit on the bottom versions due to unnecessary added sugars and additives. What's even better is what you can add, which also is limited by your imagination. Fruit, grains (granola, oats), almonds with honey come to mind but get creative. Make your own creations.
7. Muffins can be magical
A muffin a day is a great source of fiber, while satisfying kids sweet tooth. Flavors like bran, granola, blueberry are just some of the choices. Or, if you like to bake, this could be a great way to get the kids involved, while teaching them about nutrition
Picture by Sheri Chen