Snack time is a rite of passage that many kids and teens look forward to in their childhood. However, popular snack options, such as chips, cookies, and candy, provide a quick burst of energy that is often followed by a crash, offering little nutritional value. As a result, many parents, understandably, feel conflicted.
The good news is that numerous healthier and nutritious snack options are available. The right choices can fuel your child’s brain and body, helping them feel their best.
Our caring pediatricians at Old Fourth Ward Pediatrics regularly counsel parents on healthy snack choices. Keep reading to learn what makes a snack “nourishing” and discover some of our favorite healthy snacks.
“Nourishing” can seem like a vague term, but it simply means a snack provides a balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. In the proper amounts, these nutrients help your child feel full and energized in between meals.
Let’s take a closer look at why these three ingredients are so important:
Protein supports muscle strength and development and helps your child feel fuller, longer.
Fiber supports digestion, promotes healthy bowel habits, and helps keep blood sugar stable, reducing the risk of childhood diabetes.
Healthy fats, like the oils in avocados and nuts, support brain, cell, and hormone health. Because children grow rapidly, these fats are vital for healthy development.
There’s nothing wrong with offering the occasional “unhealthy” snack, but whenever possible, avoid items high in sugar and refined carbohydrates, as they’re often followed by fatigue and irritability.
The key to nutritious snacking is selecting foods that are both fun and tasty, while also being healthy. Although every child has different taste buds, some of our favorites include:
All of these snacks provide a balanced mix of fiber, protein, and healthy fats. They’re also easy to pack and satisfying, making them a great option for field trips, after-school snacks, or mid-day treats.
It may take some trial and error at first to find several snacks that your child enjoys. We recommend involving your child in the shopping for and preparation of snacks. This helps them feel invested and makes them more likely to eat what you’ve prepared.
Finding nutritious snacks that your child loves is just the first step in transitioning to a healthier lifestyle. It can be easy to fall back into old habits, so take the time to set your family up for success.
For example, when you’re shopping for snacks, read nutrition labels and choose items with fewer ingredients and lower sugar content. Once home, cut up fruits and vegetables into bite-sized chunks and place them in easily accessible containers in the fridge. Similarly, keep healthy beverages on hand. Unsweetened iced tea, milk, and water are excellent alternatives to sugary sports drinks and sodas.
Healthy snacking is an essential part of your child’s growth and development. If you’re struggling to find nutritious, balanced options, our caring pediatricians can help. Contact Old Fourth Ward Pediatrics in Atlanta, Georgia, today by calling our office or using our online booking feature.
