« Tex-Mex Chicken Soup | Main | Grilled Corn, Poblano, and Black Bean Salad »
June 21, 2012
Healthy Eating in the Summer
Now that final school bells have rung, parents are tasked with filling the tummies of youngsters during the day.
It can be a challenge, especially because parents are used to the routine of schools providing meals.
Parents could take the easy way out and serve quick, sugary and not-so-healthy foods, but children will be happier if you choose healthier options.
You feel better if you eat healthier. By eating candy and other junk foods, they miss the vitamins and minerals they need.
It can seem hard at first to map out some quick, healthy meals.
But it doesn't have to be with some practice and planning. Summer is a good time for healthy snacks because of fresh produce available.
Here are some tips to help:
Plan ahead
The extra work doesn't have to weigh the schedule down each day. Pack the week's lunches and snacks on Sunday nights.
Use plastic bags or small containers to store sliced fruits, vegetables or treats such as peanut butter, celery and raisins.
Keep a sleeve of whole-wheat bread and lean meat for a quick lunch. Stack on some spinach or other vitamin-rich vegetables.
Create a drawer where children can pick their own healthy snack between meals.
Focus more on carbohydrates and protein to keep children fuller for longer. So stock up on things such as bananas and peanut butter.
Celebrate summer
With the warm weather comes farmers markets and community gardens. Bring the kids along for a day of shopping, and let them choose their own vegetables. That way they'll be more willing to give them a try.
Make your own Popsicles by filling ice cube trays with fruit juice.
Put healthy foods at eye level in the fridge. Set out a fruit basket and hide the sugary snacks. It lowers the chance of children seeing the unhealthy choice and helps them decide on their own to make the healthier choice.
Do creative things such as fruit kabobs or smoothies to keep their interest.
A sweet treat is OK
Slip in a little sugar or fried food, as long as it's every now and then. Kids do look forward to some of the special treats that come with summer, like ice cream and fair treats. Just have them moderation. Try to stay away from soda and sports drinks, though. They're not needed, and milk or water is always a better choice.
Posted by Lisa at June 21, 2012 3:04 PM
Trackback Pings
To send a trackback, use this url. If you know anything about this subject, please post a comment.