Summertime is known for an abundance of fresh foods that we can incorporate into our daily dietary choices. Many summer foods are high in vitamins, minerals and fiber, providing a variety of health benefits for kids and adults alike. These summertime foods are healthy picks for kids to snack on all summer long!
Blueberries Any Time of the Day
Blueberries are the perfect size for little fingers, and are packed with antioxidants. Best known for protecting against diabetes and heart disease, these little blue fruits can also improve brain function. Plus, blueberries are good with breakfast, lunch, and dinner or as a healthy dessert!
Go Greek
Greek yogurt may sound like just another type of yogurt, but it has less sugar and twice as much protein as standard yogurt. The naturally-occurring bacteria in greek yogurt also helps digestion and gives a much-needed boost to your child's immunity, and the calcium it contains strengthens your child’s bones and teeth. Serve with fresh fruit – like blueberries or strawberries – for a refreshing summer snack! Makes a great quick healthy breakfast too!
Dip Those Strawberries!
Strawberries are great on their own or with greek yogurt, but dipping them in chocolate makes for a delicious summertime treat. Both strawberries and cocoa powder have health benefits: strawberries are high in antioxidants and cocoa powder is full of valuable flavonoids, and both improve oral health. Choose cocoa that hasn’t been processed with alkali and is at least 70% pure cocoa for the best health benefits.
Tofu in Disguise
Packed with protein, tofu is the greatest food to disguise since it will pick up the flavors of whatever it's cooked with. Toss it into soups or with vegetables and spices in a home-made stir-fry. Because of its texture, tofu can also be used as a substitute for yogurt in fruit smoothies.
Dip Into Tomatoes
You say "tomato," and I say YUM! Tomatoes are flavorful fruits associated with summer, and they make delicious salsas for dipping as well as spicy bruschetta toppings. Make homemade pasta and pizza sauces to give your kids the benefits of tomatoes without any arguments.
Go Wild!
Wild salmon has a wide-range of benefits and is lower than mercury than farmed salmon. Incorporating salmon into your diet can boost your child's brain development and help everyone avoid the blues. Grill them with teriyaki sauce or substitute salmon in your favorite tuna salad recipe, then serve with crackers to encourage your kids to eat it.
Kelly Wilson is a freelance writer and busy mom who loves to feed her family a variety of fresh foods all year long. For more information about how to take the best care of your children’s teeth, contact Dr. Lance Heppler of Dental Designs, a Dentist in Vancouver WA.
