Parents who have young children are always worried about their health. Whether they’re toddlers or in their teens, children develop a natural preference for the foods they enjoy the most. It’s important that whatever you feed your children, it’s healthy food for kids. Children can be moody when it comes to food choices.
Why Is Healthy Food Important For Kids?
Young children sometimes resist new foods or reject healthy foods that are unfamiliar to them. As a result, eating too little can make it difficult for them to get the nutrients they need to grow and develop normally. They may have to suffer different conditions like
- Nutrient deficiencies and malnutrition
- Low energy
- Obesity and weight gain
- Sudden Weight loss
- Weaken immune system
- Anemia
- Digestive problems
- poor concentration and lack of focus,
- Stress and mood swings
- hair loss at a very young age
- Dull skin and skin issues
Causes Of Not Eating Healthy Food
It’s not only a matter of choice that kids don’t eat healthy food. Sometimes there is a serious issue underlying.
Five common causes of not eating healthy or enough food.
- Fussy Eating
- Stressful Environments
- Sensory Issues
- Lack of Hunger
- Overeating
How to Encourage Healthy Eating Habits In Kids
- Monitor portion sizes and encourages your children to take breaks between meals.
- Make sure your children are eating regular meals and snacks.
- Identify the child’s sensory preferences and adjust
- Create a calm and safe atmosphere during meals, and limit distractions such as television or toys.
- Make the presentation of the food attractive for kids.
List and recipes of some Healthy Foods for kids
Apple slices with almond butter:
Apple slices with almond butter are a healthy and delicious snack. To make it, simply slice an apple and spread a thin layer of almond butter over each slice. Enjoy the snack alone or with a sprinkle of cinnamon or other spices.
Yogurt parfaits with granola and fresh fruit:
Yogurt parfaits with granola and fresh fruit make a delicious and nutritious breakfast or snack. To make a parfait, layer a single serving of plain or vanilla Greek yogurt, granola, and fresh fruit. Choose your favorite combination of fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries, bananas, and kiwi. The healthy fats and protein in yogurt and granola will keep your child fuller for longer periods. Enjoy!
Hummus and whole wheat pita
This classic Mediterranean snack is a great option for a healthy, wholesome snack. Hummus is a protein-rich spread made from chickpeas that can be enjoyed with whole wheat pita. The pita can be lightly toasted or grilled to give it a crunchy texture.
This combination of the high-fiber pita and the protein-packed hummus is a great way to keep your kid’s energy levels up throughout the day. Serve this snack with some fresh vegetables or salad for a balanced and nutritious meal.
Turkey and cheese pinwheels
Yes, turkey and cheese pinwheels can be healthy food. To make them a healthy snack, use whole-wheat tortillas, lean turkey, low-fat cheese, and healthy vegetables such as spinach, tomatoes, and bell peppers. These pinwheels are a great source of lean protein, fiber, and other important vitamins and minerals.
Baked sweet potato fries
Sweet potato can be a healthy snack for kids. Sweet potatoes are a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, iron, and calcium. They are also low in fat and can provide a good source of dietary fiber. Sweet potatoes can be baked rather than fried, which makes them a healthier option than traditional fries.
Fruit smoothies
Fruit smoothies are a delicious and healthy treat that can be enjoyed all year round. They are made by blending fresh fruits, such as berries, bananas, pineapple, mango, and other fruits of your choice, with yogurt or ice cream. You can also add other ingredients such as nuts, seeds, honey, and spices for added flavor. Fruit smoothies are a great way to get your daily dose of essential vitamins and minerals, as well as fiber, protein, and other important nutrients. They are low in calories and fat and can be a great snack or meal replacement.
Veggie wrap with avocado, hummus, tomato, and cucumber
A veggie wrap is a healthy food for kids because it contains a variety of vegetables, which are an important source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. It also provides protein from hummus and cheese, as well as healthy fats from the olive oil-based dressing. The wrap is also a good source of complex carbohydrates, which provide energy and help keep you feeling full for longer. Additionally, the wrap can be made with whole-grain tortillas, which are higher in fiber than traditional white flour tortillas, providing even more nutritional benefits.
Overnight oats with chia seeds
Overnight oats with chia seeds make a very nutritious breakfast or snack for kids. Oats are whole grain, rich in fiber, and high in antioxidants. While, Chia seeds are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids and provide a good amount of protein, fiber, iron, and calcium. Together, these two ingredients make a healthy and filling breakfast that may help to keep your child satisfied until lunchtime.
Baked chicken nuggets
Baked meat nuggets can be a healthy snack or meal option depending on the ingredients used to make them. Look for nuggets made with lean sources of protein such as chicken, turkey, or lean beef. If you’re able to find nuggets made with whole wheat or whole grain breading, that can add additional fiber to the meal.
Be sure to check the label of any pre-made nuggets you buy to make sure they don’t contain any added sugar or unhealthy fats. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can also make your nuggets at home with lean meats and whole-grain bread.
Whole wheat pasta with veggies
Whole wheat pasta with veggies is a great meal for kids, as it is full of important vitamins and minerals. To prepare it, start by cooking the whole wheat pasta according to the package directions. While the pasta is cooking, prepare a colorful mix of vegetables. Your kid will like that. Try mushrooms, peppers, onions, broccoli, and carrots.
Once the pasta is cooked, add the vegetables to the pot and stir to combine. Cook until the vegetables are tender. Serve the pasta with a light sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a side of fresh fruit for a nutritious meal.
In the end, all we have to say is that feeding your child, a healthy food is essential. Your kid needs your love and care in every sense. Try some delicious recipes from our list of healthy food for kids to entertain those little moody monsters.
Ahh, problem solved!