“Healthy Food and Fun in the Summertime” article by Sarah Muntel in OAC Magazine!

Healthy Food and Fun in the Summertime
by Sarah Muntel, RD

It’s summertime! Kids are home from school and looking for things to do. This can be a great time to get active with your kids, try some new healthy foods and have fun! Get Kids Involved in Nutrition

During the summer, things slow down a bit. This is a great time to get kids involved in cooking, shopping and learning about food.

Summertime Foods

Fruits

Fresh fruit is in season during the summer. Fruits are sweet and packed with NUTRITION. They can be part of a meal, a sweet treat for after meal for dessert or a cool refreshing snack. Strawberries, watermelon, BLUEBERRIES and more are all great options!

Ways to add fruit to your diet:

Fruit Kabobs: Alternate different pieces of fresh fruit on a kabob stick for a colorful treat!
Yogurt Parfaits: Top low-fat yogurt with berries, bananas or apples for a great mix of protein, CALCIUM and VITAMINS!
Fruit Smoothies: Skip the ice cream. Instead try a fruit smoothie! With your parent’s supervision, in a blender, add milk, yogurt, a handful of fruit and a few ice cubes for a treat!
Fruit Salsa: Have your children help dice and chop various types of fruit and mix with a little Splenda. Serve on low-fat graham crackers.

Veggies

Veggies are full of nutrients and great for a summer treat!

Fun ways to add in veggies:

Try some dip: Hummus or low-fat dip makes veggies better! Always serve vegetables with a fun dip!
Mix vegetables in: Add vegetables in spaghetti sauce, in a sandwich or a casserole.
Marinate them: Marinate veggies in light Italian dressing for great flavor.

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