As moms, we always want what is best for our children. So why then do we keep junk in our refrigerators? Healthy eating starts at home, and by building a solid foundation for making healthier eating choices, you are setting your child up for healthy eating habits for life.
You probably already know not to keep sugary and salty snacks in your pantry, but what about healthier items for your fridge? Here are some to stock up, so your kids have healthier fridge food options.
Table of contents:
1. Hummus
Kids love dipping things. Replace the salty and processed items with flavorful hummus. It is made with chickpeas, which are a bountiful source of antioxidants.
Plus, it comes in a variety of flavors that will please even the pickiest eaters. Carve up some carrot sticks and it becomes a crunchy and delicious snack that will fill them up and give them a healthy dose of their daily essential vitamins and minerals.
2. Greek yogurt
Yogurt always seems like such a healthy choice. But be sure to read the labels. Some brands, especially those that add fruit, are filled with sugar. You are better off choosing plain Greek yogurt and buying fresh fruit to add on top, like strawberries or blueberries.
More: 7 Vegan Foods Incredibly High in Potassium
3. Low-fat cheese
Cheese always gets such a bad reputation, but the fact is that cheese is incredibly good for your little ones. Children need lots of dairy intake and cheese really satisfies that requirement. Plus, children love cheese. Who doesn’t? The key here is to buy 2% or reduced-fat options.
4. Fresh fruit mix
Make your own healthy fruit mix by washing and cutting up fresh strawberries, melon, and whatever else is in season. Store it in a clear air-tight plastic container in your fridge so your children can enjoy a sweet yet healthy treat.
5. Tortillas
Tortillas are a fun alternative to bread. You can cut them up and let your kids dip them into the hummus, or spread hummus on them and roll them up with lean lunch meats like roasted turkey. Slice them up and the kids will go wild for these healthy and tasty tortilla circles.
6. Veggie sticks
Make vegetables more appealing and easier to choose for your kids. Cut up carrots, celery sticks, broccoli, or cauliflower and store them in the fridge for dipping into that hummus. Plus, they can be used for meal prep in the evening.
Grab them out and steam away for a quick and healthy side dish. Use your choice of seasonings to bring out the best flavors of the fresh vegetables.
More: 10 Health Reasons to Eat More Celery
Do not forget to let your children see you making healthier choices when you are snacking. You have to practice what you preach. That does not mean you have to have the entire household on lockdown with no chips ever allowed.
But it does mean that you should be demonstrating healthy eating habits for your children. When you do, you will be much more likely to have kids who make healthy food choices independently.
