Kid Food? You’ve GOT to be kidding me!

In a recent U.S. News article, Yale University Prevention Research Center director David Katz questioned why baby animals are taught to eat the same nutritious food as their parents but human kids have their own special diet of unhealthy, neon-colored cereals and creature-shaped crackers:
“Throughout nature, childhood is a time to learn the skill set necessary to survive as an adult, with a very strong emphasis on food choice and acquisition. Every species teaches its kids how to eat. Every species but ours. We have invented an entire industry to feeding kids differently.” (Read the full article here: http://bit.ly/12e37bN)

Today about one in every three U.S. kids is overweight or obese, so it’s more important than ever to get children on the right track to life-long healthy habits as early as possible. Schools play an important role in promoting healthy foods and habits. Starting school year 2014-15, junk food snacks will disappear from school stores, vending machines, and cafeteria lines in favor of more nutritious options, thanks to the new “Smart Snacks in School” federal ruling.

Let’s take a look and replace junky “kid food” with healthier, more nutritious options. Check out some ideas of what to take out and swap in: 

Instead of sugary cereals, serve hardboiled eggs
The humble egg is a protein powerhouse! At only 75 calories, one hard-boiled egg packs in 6 grams of lean protein and is a good source riboflavin, vitamin B12 selenium, and phosphorus.

Instead of a package of cookies, serve trail mix
Mix together your favorite dried fruit and nuts (and maybe even some chocolate chips!) for a filling, hearty snack that is high in fiber and protein.

Instead of a chocolate bar, serve apple slices
Fruit, its nature’s candy! Apples are sweet, tasty, and easy to eat on the go. Pair them with your favorite nut butter for an added protein boost. 

Instead of chips, serve baby carrots
Crunchy, sweet and a great source of vitamin A and fiber, baby carrots are the prefect veggie snack on the go.

Instead of French fries, serve pita chips and hummus
A great snack on the go, whole wheat pita chips and hummus provide a good mix of whole grains and protein. Hummus is very low in cholesterol and is a good source of essential nutrients like dietary fiber, folate, magnesium, phosphorus copper, and manganese.

Instead of crackers, serve unsalted nuts
Nuts are a great source of protein and fiber, and have a nice crunchy texture. While they have no cholesterol, they are high in healthy fats so enjoy in moderation.