Improving the Afternoon Snack

By Donna Stark

The afterschool snack. There’s really nothing a child loves more than to walk into their home after a long day at school and head straight toward the pantry … and with good reason too. It’s not because they are unreasonably hungry, nor is it because there is something wrong with them. The simple fact is that children burn their energy quicker than adults do so they need more calories to get them through the day. The important thing to consider though is where those calories are coming from, because even though a snack can appear to be healthy there is always a chance that it’s not what you think.

Healthier Snacking

As long as they are the right kind, calories aren’t the enemy here. Your child’s afternoon snack should consist of healthy proteins and fats and should not include any extra sugar. Here is a list of some popular snacks that may not be as healthy as you thought, along with the healthier versions to offer instead.

• Applesauce - The applesauce that lines your grocery store shelf is often loaded with sugar and contains less than half the amount of fiber that a whole apple provides. Choose instead: sugar and preservative-free options or your own homemade applesauce
• Yogurt - If chosen wisely, yogurt can make a great snack for your child, but many products offered at the store are loaded with sugar and come with candy to sprinkle on top. Choose instead: Greek yogurt sweetened with honey or fresh fruit
• Energy bars - When a “healthy” energy bar has just as much sugar as a chocolate candy bar, is it really considered healthy? Sure it may come with a dab of protein, but there are better options. Choose instead: homemade energy bars packed with protein, seeds, and dried fruit
• Cereal - Many children prefer a bowl of cereal after school, but if you don’t read the ingredients, you might be serving your child a bowl of empty calories and processed carbs. Choose instead: whole-grain cereal topped with fresh fruit
• Fruit snacks - Skip these altogether. They are equivalent to serving your child a pouch of candy with little to no nutritional value at all. Choose instead: frozen grapes, apple slices, or raisins
• Peanut butter - Most brand-name peanut butter has added sugar and salt which can negate any healthy aspect it promotes. Choose instead: all-natural peanut butter or almond butter

The Extra Work is Worth It

Finding healthy snacks for your child that aren’t loaded with added sugar, salt, preservatives, and artificial everything isn’t as hard as it may appear. And even if you can’t find what you are looking for at the grocery store, it’s pretty simple to come up with your own healthy version at home. Snack time is a perfect way to sneak some extra nutrients into your child's diet, so don’t pass this opportunity up! Fuel their body with the good stuff!

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in San Marcos, Calif.