Healthy Snack Alternatives for Kids

Kids love snacks. However, many of their snacks though tasty are extremely unhealthy for kids. While it is extremely difficult if not impossible to cut snacks completely off our kids' diet, there are many alternatives we can provide instead of the fatty, sugary, or salty treats we usually offer.

1. Potato Chips - Chips are an incredibly large part of any child's diet. Everyone knows the lack of nutritional value in chips. However, some potato chips are available. One of the best alternatives available are the Taro Chips from Terra. These chips are crunchy and delicious. The best part of these chips is that it is 40% less fat than normal chips. Sweet potato chips are another great alternative to your typical Pringles, Ruffles, and Doritos

2. Chocolate Milk - Sweet and tasty, kids love chocolate milk in the summer and hot chocolate in the summer. However, this fattening treat can be replaced by several other alternatives. Ovaltine is rich in protein and filled with vitamins without the extreme dose of sugar. A fine alternative to choclate milk and kids are often unaware of the difference. Horlick, a malt wheat drink, is another healthy and delicious alternative and can be served hot or cold that's great for kids.

3. Mac and Cheese - For some reason, many kids love mac and cheese. A great alternative to the typical boxed meal is to make your own. Try to get fun shaped pasta (wheels, screws, etc.) made of whole wheat and sprinkle the pasta lightly with shredded cheese. For a even more nutritious snack, chicken, tomatos, red peppers, and onions can be added to the dish. However, for snacks for young kids, sometimes simple is the best route to take.

4. Chex Mix - Chex mix and trail mixes are becoming a more and more popular snack treat for kids. However, many of those prepackaged mixes are loaded with sodium. Often times, the best snack mixes are the ones you combine for yourself. Try mixing cereal, dried berries, and nuts. The specific items used can be up to your child's liking.

5. Muffins and cakes - Instead of the typical butter, flour, and sugar recipe, breads and muffins made with zucchini, carrots, or banana are great alternatives. Kids usually enjoy the taste of these cakes and muffins and won't know that you are actually injecting some fruit and vegetables into their diet.

6. Dip - Dips are usually filled with fat and unhealthy components. A great alternative dip for kids is hummus. Hummus is made from beans and contain nutrients like iron and B vitamins. Peanut butter can also be an alternative dip for vegetable sticks. Peanut butter is one of those rare foods that kids love and is filled with nutrients such as fiber.

7. Fruits - If your kids are not big on fruit eating, cooked fruit is a great alternative. Apples and pears are great for cooking. A delicious warm treat can be made by sauteeing some apples and pears with a little bit of water and sugar.

Be sure to get creative and inventive for your kids in order to get them to eat healthy. Hopefully this guide will get you on your way!