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When it comes to after-school snacks, the best option is a combination of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Some great choices include fruits with nut butter, yogurt with granola, vegetables with hummus, or a handful of nuts and seeds. These snacks provide energy, keep you full, and promote brain function. It’s important to avoid sugary and processed snacks, as they can lead to energy crashes and unhealthy habits. Ultimately, the best after-school snack is one that is nutritious, satisfying, and easy to prepare.
Is there anything quite like a snack in the afternoon? For hungry kids at the end of a school day, snacks give them a much-needed energy boost before homework or extracurricular activities. In today’s busy world, families want to provide nutritious after-school snacks that will keep their children satisfied until dinner time.
For a long time, adults were told to discourage children from eating between meals. However, nutritionists eventually realized that snacks throughout the day are important to keep young bodies and minds functioning well during a busy day filled with school, homework, and activities.
As kids will tell you, they need something to hold them over between meals, and older kids often need extra energy for sports and other activities. But what should children be snacking on? That’s a great question!
Nutritionists agree that after-school snacks can provide the necessary energy and nutrients, but they emphasize the importance of serving healthy snacks. Healthy snacks provide nutrients, promote healthy eating habits, and help prevent various illnesses.
Avoid high-calorie, high-sugar, and high-fat snacks as much as possible. Stay away from sugary sodas, chips, candy, sweets, and processed foods with little nutritional value.
Instead, focus on snacks that provide healthy carbohydrates for energy and proteins for muscle building. While bags of chips and cookies may be convenient, experts recommend choosing fruits and vegetables instead.
Fruits and vegetables are highly recommended as snacks because most children do not consume enough servings of them each day. Like healthy snacks should, fruits and vegetables contain important nutrients like vitamins and fiber, and they help prevent health issues such as heart disease, cancer, and high blood pressure.
Fortunately, Mother Nature offers a wide variety of fruits and vegetables to choose from. Visit your local grocery store and take a stroll through the fruit and produce sections. Most children will quickly find several fruits and vegetables that they would enjoy as after-school snacks.
Opting for fruits and vegetables as snacks can also help you save money. Despite the belief that fruits and vegetables are more expensive than other snacks, they are actually cheaper on a per-serving basis compared to less healthy snacks.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the average serving of fruits and vegetables costs 25 cents. If you’ve recently seen the cost of a bag of potato chips or a candy bar, you’ll understand what a great deal fruits and vegetables can be!
Of course, fruits and vegetables aren’t the only healthy options for after-school snacks. Here are some other types of foods that many children enjoy as healthy snacks every day:
- Grains: crackers with cheese, whole-grain cereal, mini rice cakes, graham crackers
- Dairy: fruit milkshakes, cheese slices, string cheese, mini yogurt cups
- Protein: hard-boiled eggs, peanut butter on crackers, bean dip, jerky
Give It a Try
Are you ready to eat healthy after school? Make sure to check out the following activities with a friend or family member:
Easy and Nutritious Recipes
Here are some simple and healthy recipes that you can try making:
- Ants on a Log
- Frozen Berry Yogurt Popsicles
- Fruit Kabobs
- Jell-O® Pizza
- Veggie Cheese Wraps
Not everyone has the same taste when it comes to fruits and vegetables. Which ones do you like the most? Ask an adult friend or family member to take you to a local grocery store. Explore the fresh fruit and produce sections to find healthy snacks that you can enjoy after school. Don’t be afraid to try something new!
While you’re at the store, take a look at the snack aisle. There are many pre-packaged snack foods to choose from, but are they healthy? Examine the nutritional labels of different snacks. Are they high in fat, sugar, or calories? Can you find any healthy snacks in the snack aisle? Happy searching!
Useful Sources
- http://cspinet.org/nutritionpolicy/healthy_school_snacks.html
- http://www.foodfit.com/cooking/archive/reciperevue_aug09.asp
- http://healthy-snacks-for-kids.org/after-school-snacks/
- http://www.illinoisearlylearning.org/tipsheets/healthysnacks.htm
FAQ
1. What are some healthy after-school snack options?
Some healthy after-school snack options include fruits, vegetables with dip, yogurt, nuts, and whole grain crackers. These snacks provide essential nutrients and energy to keep you fueled until dinner.
2. Are there any snacks that can boost energy and focus?
Yes, there are snacks that can boost energy and focus. Foods high in protein, such as Greek yogurt or a handful of almonds, can help keep you alert and focused. Additionally, snacks with complex carbohydrates, like whole grain toast with peanut butter, can provide a steady release of energy.
3. What are some quick and easy after-school snacks?
Some quick and easy after-school snacks include pre-cut fruits, pre-packaged snack bars, and pre-made smoothies. These snacks require minimal preparation time and can be enjoyed on-the-go.
4. How can I make my after-school snack more satisfying?
You can make your after-school snack more satisfying by combining different food groups. For example, pairing an apple with a handful of almonds or spreading avocado on whole grain toast can provide a balance of nutrients and help keep you fuller for longer.
5. What are some kid-friendly after-school snack ideas?
Some kid-friendly after-school snack ideas include homemade trail mix, fruit kabobs, veggie sticks with ranch dip, or mini sandwiches. These snacks are not only nutritious but also fun to eat, making them more appealing to children.
6. Are there any after-school snacks to avoid?
It is best to avoid snacks that are high in added sugars, unhealthy fats, and artificial ingredients. Examples include sugary cereals, processed chips, and candy bars. Opt for healthier alternatives whenever possible.
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