Healthy Teen Snack Ideas Your Teen Will Love

Health food and teen doesn't really belong in the same sentence. Or does it? Believe it or not, there are healthy snacks for teens that teens actually enjoy. Junk food doesn't have to be their whole existence. Besides, is a healthy snack to a teen really like kryptonite to Superman?

~Liquids

Instead of sodas, keep fruit juice and water on hand. Teens will benefit from the lack of caffeine. Plus, teens actually enjoy water and fruit juice. Luckily, actors, actresses, and musicians are onboard when it comes to water. With all the varieties of flavored water, it shouldn't be hard to find a wonderful soda replacement for your teen.

~Candy

Watch what candy your purchase. There are actually healthy varieties of candy available. Low calorie, fat free snacks are readily available. Some candy even contains vitamins such as A, E, and C. Look at fruit snacks, hard candy, and even some candy bars. Dark chocolate has even been proven to have some nutritional benefits when eaten in moderation. Read the nutritional information before you buy. Your teen will love the snacks and only you have to know they're actually snacking healthy.

~Nuts

Nuts and trail mix are wonderful snacks that teens love. These are great alternatives to greasy chips and offer health benefits as well. With the variety of nut and trail mix choices, teens are sure to find something they like.

~Fruit and Vegetables

This one may prove to be a bit harder than the others. Teens know fruits and vegetables are healthy for them. However, it's part of their programming to refuse anything healthy. By reducing the amount of unhealthy snacks available, teens will begin to try the alternatives. Keep apples and oranges on hand along with carrot and celery sticks. Provide something to dip the snack in such as caramel for apples and ranch for veggies.

~Creating the Habit

Begin teaching your teen to snack healthy as early as possible. Children and teens develop habits just as easily as an adult. If they've always eaten healthy snacks, they'll continue. Don't completely prohibit junk food. By banning junk food, you're simply begging your teen to eat as much as possible behind your back.

However, by working to create healthy eating habits and making healthy snacks readily available, you can have a teen that actually enjoys healthy snacks. There are just as many healthy choices available as junk food options. Just remember, you, the parent, must set an example as well.