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The most important nutrients parents seek when selecting the foods they feed their kids are protein, calcium, vitamin C, vitamin D and iron. While stocking up on foods rich in these nourishing elements is certainly helpful, there's no way to ensure your child will eat them. However, recent studies have found that kids are actually more likely than their parents to be the first of their friends to try new food or nutrition products.
Take the opportunity to start nutritious eating habits at a young age with flavorful food combinations that create balance at snack and meal time. A recent study shows that replacing non-nutrient rich snack foods (like chips) with a combination of healthy alternatives can help reduce calories by 72 percent and keep kids feeling fuller longer.
- Protein Picks: To keep them feeling satisfied and fuller longer, include a few protein-packed choices in their lunch bag. Some options include roasted chicken, steamed edamame, hard boiled eggs, nuts or cheese.
- Sweet Additions: Make their midday meal and snack time more complete with the addition of one or two servings of fruit. Some delicious options include apples, apricots, strawberries, blueberries, kiwis or pears.
- Fresh Finds: Many vegetables offer fiber and other nutrients not found in other snacks. Throw in a bag of chopped vegetables, such as baby carrots, broccoli florets, celery, red bell peppers or sugar snap peas.
Source: Babybel
